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United Way at 91 percent of goal [UPDATED]
Published 10:59am Monday, January 7, 2013 Updated 11:02am Monday, January 7, 2013The United Way is at 91 percent of its 2012 $310,000 goal and is on target to collect the remaining funds which it allocates to non-profit organizations in Otter Tail County. To date, 281,417.82 has been raised.
“We have seen an increase in payroll deductions, and in leadership givers. We’re not seeing a lot of new givers, but the ones we do have are giving more,” according to Mary Phillipe, director for the United Way. “We’ve also seen an increase in designated gifts for the mobile food drop and backpack feeding program.”
To celebrate a successful year, the United Way will host its annual Community impact luncheon at 11:30 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 16 at Calvary Lutheran Church in Perham.
Enjoy a soup lunch while you learn how your donation to United Way has improved lives right here in Otter Tail County.
Reaching the $310,000 goal will allow the United Way to fund its non-profit partners at the same levels as last year. One change Phillipe hopes to see in the coming year is the addition of an event coodinator to the staff to grow the campaign, increase volunteer opportunities and help coordinate signature events, said Phillipe.
Guest speakers will include Sean Sullivan, president of United Way of Otter Tail County board; Cori Brown, Perham Boys and Girls Club director and Arne Gudmestad, Friends of Friends Fighting Hunger chairwoman.
The agency will also honor community volunteers and businesses that have made an impact in the community. Retiring UWOTC board members include Greg Larson, Glenn Moerke and Tim Rogelstad.
Nominated new board members to be voted upon, include Shelley Gummeringer of Pelican Rapids, Tracy Bieger of Perham and Dianne Beckman of Underwood.
Awards will also be given for the top five corporate gifts, top five employee campaigns, top 15 campaign champions and community champions.
