United Way of Marshall County is making a last-minute appeal in an attempt to reach its $650,000 goal before its annual Report to the Community Luncheon on February 25.

Executive Director Jeannie Lyle said, “United Way has reached 93.18 percent of its goal, with $605,638.30 contributed as of today. We just want to make one last plea for help in meeting the annual goal. The campaign raised $700,164.00 last year. I’ve been at United Way for almost 10 years, and the community has been through some difficult times, but I’ve never seen it as difficult as it is now. With high unemployment and an uncertain outlook for 2010, the need has never been greater. Those in need are no longer strangers; they are our family and friends.”

United Way’s mission is to build and ensure a network of services for the residents in Marshall County. These services ensure stronger families and communities, help children and youth reach their true potential through education, promote healthy living for seniors, provide programs for individuals with disabilities, and respond to basic needs. “When you think about all the programs we fund, there is no sector of the community untouched by the United Way”, Lyle said.

“We are calling upon those in the community who might be able to give a donation in any amount to help United Way fund the critical programs that help the growing number of people in need,” said Steve Marshall, Chairman of the United Way’s 2009/2010 campaign. “Marshall County’s unemployment and home foreclosure rates severely impacted the amount of discretionary income individuals and corporations have been able to give during the United Way’s annual workplace campaign. Now, more than ever, our citizens require assistance in almost every type of need — need so broad and so deep that the United Way is truly the agency that is best poised and suited to address them.”

Although residents have supported the agency and responded very positively to the fundraising campaign, so many people don’t have the means to give this year. Marshall encourages those who can help to do so and hopes those who have donated already, but can afford to give more, will consider making another contribution to United Way.

For those who might have overlooked your opportunity to give, it is not too late.

 “We just don’t want to see anyone turned away from services,” Marshall said.

To make a contribution, or for more information on the United Way and its services, visit wwwuwaymc.com or call 582-4700.
The United Way has 27 partner agencies/programs that serve all areas within Marshall County.