United Way of the Lowcountry, Inc. Pushing for Goal

United Way of the Lowcountry volunteers reported on Thursday that they have received $1,824,539 in gifts and pledges for the campaign to date. This is 67 percent of the $2.725 million goal for this year.

Jack Alderman, United Way Chairman of the Board says that in today’s economically uncertain times, the most vulnerable among us need help more than ever before, and United Way of the Lowcountry provides the funding to help them. “But, we can’t do it without your help,” he emphasized.

“United Way funds agencies on the front lines that provide direct assistance to the community during the toughest of times. However, these agencies have seen their state, federal and private funding dramatically reduced, while demand for their services has greatly increased…in some instances by more than 40 percent,” said Alderman.

“The economic crisis has hit all of us hard,” said Helen Ryan, Hilton Head Island Campaign Chairman, who noted that some of United Way’s former contributors are now looking for help instead of making their annual pledges. “Now is not the time to give less…we must unite and give more.”

Ryan explained that when you give to United Way, you are investing in the well being of your own community. “We make every single dollar count, and have volunteers who provide their time, talent and resources to United Way, which frees up more dollars for helping those here in our community.”

“But we still must raise $900,000,” she said. “Help us make goal and send in your personal gift now…and if you can, please dig deeper and make an extra gift to United Way in the name of a loved one, friend, co-worker or employee.”

According to Michael Reeves, Bluffton/Jasper Campaign Chairman, everyone who can give this year “needs to open their hearts and think of those less fortunate than themselves.” He also pointed out that pledging a contribution is now quick and easy by going online and making secure donation online at www.uwlowcountry.org.

“If a United Way volunteer has not yet contacted you, please call us,” said Reeves.

A bounty of non-perishable staple food and unwrapped toys were donated by United Way board members and staff at their November 19th board meeting, said Ed Saxon, Beaufort Area Campaign Chairman. As part of their commitment to the community and local agencies this holiday season, the group united to help bulk up local food pantries and donate Christmas presents to Operation Holiday Heroes. The program, a two-county partnership involving The Salvation Army, Bluffton Self Help, Deep Well and United Way of the Lowcountry (plus many more organizations), brings food and toys to families during the Christmas season. One of its main goals is to make sure that every child in the community has a present under the tree Christmas morning.

“When the community needs us most, United Way always responds to that need in a very personal way,” said Saxon. “The commitment shown by United Way board members and staff is truly extraordinary, and I consider it an honor to be associated with such a diverse, giving group who truly LIVE UNITED.”

Chairing the campaign are Ed Saxon of the Beaufort-Jasper Water Sewer Authority, Beaufort area; Michael Reeves of Resort Services, Inc., Bluffton/Jasper County; and Helen Ryan of Care Core National, Hilton Head Island.

To contribute, to volunteer or for more information, call 843-982-3040 in Beaufort, 843-686-4304 in Bluffton/Hilton Head and 843.645.6500 in Jasper County.