United Way of Garrett County’s 2005-2006 fundraising campaign will close at the end of April.  This year’s fundraising efforts, which began in October 2005, have currently reached 85% of the goal of $90,000.00.

Fundraising efforts include direct mail, corporate giving and special events. 

“Next month we are holding our annual Flamingo Flocking and we are currently selling charity tickets for the 84 Lumber Classic in September,” said Robin Murray, Campaign Chairperson.  “As this year’s campaign winds down, we are working even harder to make sure that we surpass our goal.”

Each year, United Way depends on volunteers to facilitate the fundraising campaign. Many of which may be your friends, relatives or neighbors.  This year’s campaign committee is eager to surpass the $90,000 goal and is committed to making the Garrett County community a better place to live.

Last year the United Way of Garrett County and their affiliates achieved the following: 

• 8,200 residents were educated regarding the dynamics of domestic violence and sexual assault, thereby reducing negative attitudes towards victims, and increasing the likelihood of individuals seeking services via the Dove Center
   
• 2,459 residents received blood services via the American Red Cross
   
• 223 youth participated in mentoring programs offered by Big Brothers/Big Sisters, Boy Scouts of Potomac Council and Maryland Salem Children’s Trust
   
• 100 patients were given Prescription Medication Assistance via the Garrett County Community Action Committee
   
• 40 individuals were given the basic necessities including shelter, utilities and food via the American Red Cross Disaster Relief
   
• 30 elderly residents attend Day Care Services via Mountain Glade Adult Day Service
   
•  2 economically disadvantaged families were given assistance in creating a better human habitat in which to work

It is often difficult to choose just one organization to receive your charitable contribution, but by donating to United Way, you do not need to choose which charity or special need is more important.  United Way takes this difficult decision and places your dollars where it will have the most impact in our community.  Over 18 organizations feel its strength in Garrett County.

"Every pledge is vital to our local programs.  Any size donation is greatly appreciated and will help us respond to crisis in our neighborhoods, invest in our local children, and strengthen our families within our community," stated Murray.

Contributions may be mailed to United Way of Garrett County, P.O. Box 394, Oakland, MD 21550 or can be made online by visiting http://national.unitedway.org/give/ and entering ‘21550’ in the zip code box.

The United Way of Garrett County, formed in April of 2000, is fully supported by contributions from individuals and businesses in the community.  Affiliated organizations have met the requirements of the United Way of Garrett County by delivering community services to improve the quality of life for the county.  Any
non-profit organization meeting the human needs of the community is welcome to apply for affiliation.

Volunteer representatives from the United Way of Garrett County are available to any businesses or organization interested in learning more about the agency.  For further information on volunteering or supporting, or to receive an application for affiliation, please call the United Way of Garrett County at 301-359-9697.  Contributions may be mailed to the United Way of Garrett County, P.O. Box 394, Oakland, MD 21550.