PORT ANGELES — The United Way of Clallam County is making a renewed plea for donations since the current funding campaign is $288,000 below the goal.
Donations total $712,000 for the fundraising campaign that ends in March, Jody Moss, executive director, said last week.
The goal for the campaign is $1 million.
“We are hearing back from volunteers about the trouble they are having encouraging fellow employees to donate,” Moss said.
“Everyone is feeling such fatigue over our economic woes. But this is a critical juncture for our community. Sure, we hear the “Big Recession” is over . . . but not here.
“We ask our community to dig deep one more time,” Moss said.
In 2008, the United Way campaign raised $1,059,641.
“Life sure has changed since 2008,” Moss said.
“Our communities have seen jobs and businesses disappear; staffs have become leaner.
“We are all working harder with less, and it doesn’t seem like it is going to change very soon.”
Since then, United Way annual fund drive totals have hovered right around the $900,000 mark, Moss said, and United Way board volunteers have been able to keep allocations to the 23 United Way partner agencies at a consistent level.
In addition, United Way has been able to launch its early learning initiative, Great Beginnings.
Donating “makes a real difference in individuals’ lives and in all our lives. What happens to the least of us happens to all of us,” Moss said.
To donate through an employee campaign, contact the payroll office. Donations also can be mailed to United Way, P.O. Box 937, Port Angeles, WA 98362.
To give by credit card, visit www.unitedwayclallam.org/give or phone 360-457-3011.
