The United Way of Portage County is pleased to announce that it made its campaign goal of $1,020,000 for the 2008 campaign. “The community will benefit from this year’s campaign”  said Steve Kleiber, President & CEO of United Way of Portage County.

United Way was able to make progress during difficult circumstances. United Way of Portage County is one of just a handful of United Way’s to achieve its annual fundraising goal.

I would like to thank all of our donors for continuing to support local programs. “Everyone involved in the campaign played a part in its success”  Steve Kleiber said.

The groups that are part of getting that message to the community include; clients, donors, volunteers, United Way agency personnel, and the United Way of Portage County staff.

The 2008 fundraising increases that helped lead the way this year came from some familiar large workplace campaigns.  The bulk of the increases came from Kent State University, the Step2 Corporation, and other long time United Way supporters.

“The campaign at Kent State University really shows their commitment to the community and to helping local residents in need” Steve Kleiber said.

The community has been hit hard by layoffs and increased demand on local basic needs programming. In fact, the call volume to 211 Portage (a.k.a. First call for help) has increased by more then 10 % over this same the same time last year.

The effort of our volunteers in the workplace (Employee campaign coordinators) was an important part of keeping up a positive approach during tough economic times. “Every individual donor that donated on their own or gave their contribution through payroll deduction made a difference this past campaign” (Kleiber said)

Every year United Way of Portage County runs a campaign in workplaces across the community.   If you are interested in running a campaign in your workplace, donating to United Way of Portage County, or volunteering.  Please contact Steve Kleiber at steve@uwportage.org.

 The United Way of Portage County funds 39 local programs that provide services in the areas of health & human services.