United Way of Deschutes County tops goal

On behalf of all connected with United Way of Deschutes County, including board, staff and volunteers, we wish to send a sincere “thank you” to United Way supporters in the Central Oregon region.

The United Way’s fundraising campaign is successfully winding down, and this positive accomplishment is made possible thanks to the efforts and generosity of individuals, workplaces, private businesses and corporations in Deschutes County.

Monies raised by the organization are reinvested locally to support United Way’s mission to create fundamental lasting change in the county, particularly focused on four key priorities; meeting people’s most basic needs, giving every child an opportunity for a great start on life, protecting the most vulnerable from violence and abuse, and keeping youth on track for success. United Way helps fund programs that provide services that cover the entire lifespan—from the unique needs of infants through pressing needs of childhood, adolescence, adulthood and the aging.

Thanks to supporters of United Way of Deschutes County:

More newborns have healthy formula to drink, and infants have clean, dry clothing. Children in foster care have a caring advocate to speak for them in court. Seniors have a place to gather, and the housebound receive hot nutritious meals. People with disabilities are able to live and work more independently. Victims of abuse can be safe and begin the healing process. More of the hungry are fed and the homeless provided shelter.

The fundraising goal set for the 2012/13 campaign was $1.25 Million. With the help of John Salzer, current Campaign Chair and President of the United Way Board, that goal has been surpassed. At this time, Deschutes County residents and businesses have donated more than $1,342,000. The current campaign does not officially conclude until June 30.

“We’ve met the goal, but not the need….yet. Every additional donation received from now through June means our funded partner agencies can help more people, or, people can be helped more.” states Ken Wilhelm, longtime Executive Director of United Way of Deschutes County.

The United Way Board and staff pledge to reinvest donated dollars wisely to support more than 30 effective local programs that make our community a better place to live for all who call Deschutes County home. Funding allocation decisions are made by a group of dedicated community volunteers who carefully review partner agency budgets; participate in site visits, and closely critique programs and outcomes.

Living United means being a part of the community and working together to pool resources to maximize impact. Strong community support makes it possible for more to be done collectively to improve the quality of life for thousands of area residents.

“Thank you” to all United Way supporters for the time, commitment and resources contributed to making the United Way Campaign a success!

About United Way of Deschutes County

Since 1953, United Way of Deschutes County has been helping people in our community to improve their lives and build a better community by tapping into the caring power of people and organizations. United Way systematically identifies unmet needs and critical issues, and brings together people and resources to address them. With the help of corporate, employee and individual donations, United Way touches one-in-three people in our community each year through programs that focus on our most urgent human service needs: helping kids get a great start in life, keeping youth on track for success, meeting basic needs of individuals and families, and keeping children and families safe from violence and abuse. For more information call 541-389-6507 or visit www.deschutesunitedway.org.