United Way at 68% of 2011 campaign goal

Van Wert independent/United Way information

“Currently the 2011 United Way campaign is at 68 percent or $341,757 of our $500,000 campaign goal, states Campaign Chair Lorie Garwood. “It is always a little rough getting those last dollars in, but we continue to work hard to reach our goal.”

Garwood did thank the following campaign divisions for meeting or exceeding their goals: Convoy, Harrison Township, Liberty Township, Pleasant Township, Ridge Township, Tully Township, Venedocia, and York Township, City Government, and County Education.

Last week Mayor Louis Ehmer and City Auditor Martha Balyeat treated Van Wert Municipal Court and the city administration (mayor, safety-service director, income tax and auditor’s offices) to lunch at Wild Willy’s. A challenge was issued to all departments that the department with the most participation based on number of employees would be treated to lunch.  Annette Balyeat, United Way staff member, provided homemade cupcakes.

“We have a few company campaigns that have not yet reported so we are anxious to see what their totals are,” Garwood noted. “If you have not mailed your contribution, there is still time to do so. You can still get that 2011 tax deduction!”

She urged organizations and individuals to support the 27 local agencies that make up the United Way.

“I am thankful and grateful to all those individuals, companies, industries, and businesses that have contributed to the 2011 campaign,” Garwood said (click here for individual division results).