The people of this community have come through once again for the agencies funded by the Greater Valdosta United Way. After weeks of extending the United Way campaign, the organization exceeded its 2005-06 goal of $1.25 million last week for a final tally of $1,250,100.
That is great news for the 27 agencies that rely on the United Way. Money from the organization goes to the area food bank, shelters, children’s programs and emergency-relief programs. The United Way helps programs in agencies where you, your family, your friends or your neighbors may participate.
Affecting this year’s campaign was the number of relief efforts conducted nationally. People from this area touched by the plight of Hurricane Katrina victims gave generously as news reports came from storm-savaged New Orleans and Mississippi. It seemed at times that the community had given all it could during a year when natural disasters impacted so many Americans.
With United Way still short of its goal by 25 percent in December, a final push was made to ensure that local organizations wouldn’t be forced to deny services. More donations arrived, and money came in from the ebay auction. The final red mark on the United Way’s thermometer Friday indicated the community still had something left to give.
Those who donated can carry with them the good feeling that their money will help others here in the Greater Valdosta area. Agencies like the Salvation Army and the Children’s Advocacy Center that do great work all year will continue to do so thanks to donors’ generosity. It is a fitting testament to the open-hearted nature of this community.
