Tom MacCallum

Richmond County Daily Journal

There is one more month left to help this year’s United Way effort.

Michelle Parrish, director, Richmond County United Way, said last week the 2008- 2009 campaign would end Feb. 28, and the 2009 to 2010 campaign would begin March 1.

She expects this latest campaign to exceed last year’s collections, but they are short of the new $300,000 goal.

“We’ve found in this time of economic concern people who are able are reaching even deeper in their pockets to help our agencies,” Parrish said.

She felt contributions would exceed last year’s $160,000, as $158,000 had been raised as of Wednesday.

“I am hopeful we can reach that goal with a month to go,” Parrish said. “I am encouraged that we are further ahead already this year than we were last year at this time.”

Several large group contributions are still being finalized, she said.

The current campaign kicked off Sept. 17.

The new campaign will begin with planning on how best to conduct it.

A major part of the approach has been — and will be — Parrish’s personal contacts made throughout the community soliciting support for the 17 agencies considered partners.

Some 39 businesses and industries have given support with contributions along with numerous individuals throughout the county.

United Way requires participating partners to submit plans on how they plan to serve the community and then present reports on their accomplishments in investing efforts in the community.

Parrish was pleased that so many previous supporters of United Way have returned to lend their support.

United Way accepts donations sent to P.O. Box 153, Rockingham, NC 28380; or contributors may call Parrish at 997-2173.

Contributions remain for services in Richmond County.

Partner agencies are Sandhills Children Center, Roberdel Children’s Center, Richmond County 4-H Clubs, Boy and Girl Scouts, Leak Street Community Center, Richmond County Aging Services, Samaritan Colony, Richmond County Literacy Council, Richmond Christian Counseling, American Red Cross, New Horizons Life and Family Services, Salvation Army operating through Richmond County Department of Social Services, Ellerbe Rescue Squad, Rockingham Rescue Squad, Hamlet Soup Kitchen, and Rockingham Soup Kitchen and Homeless Shelter.

n Contact reporter Tom MacCallum at 997-3111, ext. 15; e-mail tmaccallum@yourdailyjournal.com.