United Way at 20% of Goal

After just over one month of active solicitations, representatives of the United Way of the Bradford Area have announced that 20% of the $375,000 goal has been raised.

“We again had quite a few leadership donors and corporations which acted as our pace-setters,” says Kristen Luther, “with special recognition going to Dresser Piping Specialties for their early confirmation.”

Although the local small businesses have not officially been solicited, Assistant Director Mandi Wilton Davis says one new business has acted as the pace-setter for that division.

“Bradford Crematory will be the leader for the small businesses this year, so thank you to Greg Buckner for his early support.”

One of the largest aspects of the annual United Way appeal is the employee presentations, which will be in full swing in the coming weeks.

“We’ve already had the privilege of speaking with the employees of the School District, and now we’re looking forward to seeing the familiar faces and meeting the new employees at the other businesses and corporations which welcome us year after year,” says Luther.

Although not denying that current economic conditions may make it harder for some to contribute at their current level, the UWBA Board of Directors, acting as this year’s campaign chair(s), remains optimistic about not only the response of the local community, but the impact that will be made with that generosity.

“Of course we’re not blind to what’s going on around us,” says Board President Bob Marasco, “but we also know how compassionate and giving of a community we live in. We’re never surprised by the out pouring of support (for those in need) which comes from so many.

“We can’t say ‘thank you’ enough for those who give.”

Although enthusiastic and optimistic, there is still a lot of work to be done before the official close of the campaign on December 15th.

“We will be approaching the remaining divisions and community members who have yet to be asked to contribute,” says Davis. “And we are preparing for our second annual soup lunch, as well as the sale of the United Way cookbook.”

The soup lunch is scheduled for Friday, October 17 and will feature four varieties for $5 each. Orders are available for pick-up or delivery, and can be placed by contacting Davis at the United Way office.

Also, the United Way Board of Directors is currently in the process of reviewing the Requests for Proposals (RFP’s) submitted by local agencies to receive United Way funding in the year 2009.

“A lot of credit needs to be given to both our Board and the agencies which have applied for funding,” says Luther. “This is not an easy task by either party, but both are working for the ‘common good,’ so we anticipate great outcomes.”

For more information on the United Way of the Bradford Area or its funded agencies, contact the office or visit the website at uwbanews.org.