CALLAWAY COUNTY UNITED WAY REACHES GOAL

Fulton, MO, February 18, 2009:  The Board of Directors of the Callaway County United Way announced this morning that they have reached their goal for the 2008-09 campaign.  The $250,000 goal, the largest in the history of the organization, will fund 14 agencies in Callaway County throughout 2009. Executive Director, Kathy Richey Liddle, explained the success: “It’s our community,” she said.  “We knew this was going to be the toughest year we’ve faced – an enormous increase over last year and an uncertain economy,” said Richey Liddle, “but Callaway County didn’t let us down.  They never have and I don’t think they ever will.”

Board President, Cathi Harris agreed.  “We raised our goal by $30,000 over last year.  That’s nearly a 15% increase.  But we knew we had to.  The economic indicators led our board to the conclusion that the need in 2009 was going to be much greater than 2008 and the United Way had to lead the way in alleviating difficult circumstances,” said Harris.  She continued, “Of course we were nervous about hitting the goal, but we also knew that Callaway County understands, supports and appreciates the work we do.  This is one GREAT place to live!”

The Callaway County United Way will fund 14 agencies throughout 2009, including The American Red Cross, Boy Scout s, 4-H, the Senior Center , CARDV, Family Counseling Center , Girl Scout s, HAVEN House, HeadStart, Kingdom Projects, Kingdom Respite Services, Mid-Missouri Legal Services , SERVE and the YMCA.  These agencies provide over 200 services that benefit nearly 25% of the residents of Callaway County .

     The mission of the Callaway County United Way is to improve, consistently and measurably, the quality of life for all the people of Callaway County by raising and distributing funds, mobilizing community resources, and encouraging innovative solutions to the community's health and human service needs.