FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
UNITED WAY RALLIES COMMUNITY
Officials and Volunteers from the United Way,
which serves Clinton, Essex and Franklin Counties, are urging people from
throughout the region to rally their support in order to make the 2010 campaign
goal of $700,000.
John Bernardi, Executive Director, reported
that the final results will be tallied at the end of January and the campaign
team is working hard to make the goal. “ The needs are tremendous in our region
and our annual campaign helps to fund critical health and human service programs
that may not be able to exist otherwise”, he said.
The campaign team, comprised of volunteers from
throughout the region, is anticipating a potential shortfall of approximately
$30,000. Jamie Basiliere, Campaign Chair and Executive Director of the Child
Care Coordinating Council is calling upon individuals and organizations from all
three counties to answer the call. “We need $30,000 in three weeks and even
though we have already achieved a great deal of success, we really want to put a
seven in front of the final figure”, she said.
The local United Way supports numerous health
and human services through its network of 33 partner agencies. These services
and programs include, Youth Development, Mental Health, Elderly Services,
Housing and Emergency Food and Shelter.
Kirk Stallsmith, General Manager of Georgia
Pacific Plattsburgh, United Way Board Officer and Campaign Vice Chair, is
pleased to see a number of companies in the region step up to the plate.
“Despite a downsized environment, our base of support is growing and with this
last push the 2010 campaign can make its goal. I call upon those who have the
means to join us at the leadership level and invest in our community”, he
said.
United Way Officials anticipate
reporting the final campaign results during the first week of February, followed
by the allocation process, which results in the funding of programs based upon
community needs and proven outcomes. In addition to its annual campaign, the
United Way coordinates a variety of health and human service programs throughout
the region. These include, 2-1-1 Information and Referral, Earned Income Tax
Credit, Emergency Preparedness and Gifts in Kind. Gerry Morrow, Town of
Chesterfield Supervisor, Essex County Legislator and United Way Board Member is
impressed with the impact to the community. “I never realized just how far
reaching and effective this United Way was for our friends and neighbors
throughout the North Country. It’s tremendous!”
