Leaders of the United Way of the Lowcountry hope people take advantage of tax-saving opportunities by donating before Jan. 1 to the 2012 fundraising campaign.

On Thursday, the agency reported it was at 73.8 percent of its $2.8 million goal.

"As we wrap up 2012, we have a ways to go to meet our ... campaign goal," Mike Petrilli, Hilton Head Island campaign chairman, said. "This is an important time of the year for people to look at their finances because there can be some great tax-saving opportunities for gifts made before the new year."

To learn more about the United Way of the Lowcountry, call 843-982-3040 or go to www.uwlowcountry.org. A secure online payment system is available.