United Way at 35 Percent of Goal

United Way of the Bradford Area officials hope the generous spirit of giving will be evident in the next several weeks, resulting in continued successes for the 2013-2014 campaign, Life is Good When You’re United.

To date, 35% of its $330,000 goal has been raised, with just little over four weeks left in the fundraising period. Mandi Wilton Davis, executive director, is confident the campaign will reach 50% by Thanksgiving, which will partly be attributed to the generosity of employees after the last month of campaign presentations.

“We have been so fortunate to have several local businesses and corporations allow us time with their employees, relaying the mission of the UWBA and directly asking for their support,” said Wilton Davis. “There are also several others who promote our campaign internally, which is greatly appreciated as well.

“This division of the annual appeal makes up roughly a quarter of our goal, which is quite substantial.”

United Way has utilized mail solicitations, a business blitz and workplace presentations to educate the community on the campaign and encourage giving. Lisa Boser-Miller described her experience as campaign co-chair thus far as rewarding.

“I’ve been lucky to have been awarded time to be available at some presentations. As donors ourselves, Mary (Boser) and I are asking the community to do nothing more than what we’ve done. It feels great to be part of an organization that has the ability to touch so many lives,” said Boser-Miller. A second push of solicitations will be coming in the next week as a reminder for those who have yet to fill out their pledge cards.

“The community is once again showing how generous it is; our citizens understand the importance of how their contributions build a better community,” said Steve Williams, president of the board of directors. “As we begin to initiate our final push to meet our goal of $330,000, our volunteers, staff and board will continue to work diligently to ensure we are successful.

“Our entire community benefits from others’ generosity and we thank you for your current and continued support of the United Way,” said Williams.

Additionally, the office is promoting honorarium giving this holiday season.

“Often times it may be difficult to find that one perfect gift, but a donation to the United Way of the Bradford Area in honor of that family member, friend or neighbor will go a long way,” said Wilton Davis. “Not only are you making the season a little brighter, you’re adding cheer to so many lives right here in our own community.”

Direct solicitations for the campaign end December 15, but United Way accepts donations and pledges through January 5 for any end-of-the-year giving. To learn more about the 2013-2014 Campaign: Life is Good When You’re United, or to make a donation, visit www.uwbanews.org or call the United Way office at 814-368-6181.

Pictured, United Way Board Member, Debbie Curtin, and Campaign Co-Chair Lisa Boser-Miller look over the hockey night raffle tickets currently being sold by the local office, while discussing the progress of the annual appeal.
Glenn Melvin photo

The news leader of the Twin Tiers ... since 1947