This year our goal is $500,000.  That’s only $45,000 more than the 2007-2008 campaign.  Even with the loss of industries and higher than expected prices, we believe in this wonderful community and its ability to band together so that the entire community prospers and thrives.  Time and time again, we have witnessed the people seeing a need and pulling together to meet all the needs that have been presented.  But if we set our expectations too low, we limit your giving and our growth, ultimately hurting our community rather than helping.

We could choose to drop back on our goal and plan a modest increase.  But the other side of the coin is that higher prices for food, gas and heating oil have hit every one of us.  That means it will take even more to help people to stay on their feet.  People will need our United Fund agencies to support them whether it’s with food supplements, medicine, or classes to deal with the anxiety and fear of their situation.  For many it might come down to the most basic fear of being unable to pay for food and medicine—but which one can they afford.  And then there is every parent’s nightmare—can they afford to give their children a Christmas this year.

The 2007-2008 campaign was the largest campaign for the United Fund in its history.  This year with the 2008-2009 campaign we will continue that trend.  We are appreciative that so many businesses have taken up the cause and increased their commitment as industries have closed in our area.  This is a truly giving community that understands the meaning of the words spoken by

President Woodrow Wilson,
”We are not here merely to make a living.  We are here to enrich the world.”

Helen Keller,
“Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.”

Thank you,
United Fund of Surry
Better Together