Local News - January 2003

United Way nears goal of $400,000

By JEREMY ASHTON, LTN Staff Writer

January 3, 2003 - Jeff Hedrick stood on a ladder in front of First Charter Bank during a drizzle Thursday.

Hedrick, the district manager at Piedmont Natural Gas, seemed to go through a lot of effort to put one and a half red stickers on a sign. Considering what those stickers represent, however, it was a minor inconvenience.

The stickers signify that United Way of Lincoln County is close to completing its annual fundraising drive, which will benefit several health and human service agencies.

United Way Director Rhonda Sigmon said the organization has reached 95 percent of its stated 2002-03 goal of $400,000. Sigmon would liked to have seen that mark reached before the new year, but United Way has until March to get there.

“We have been real fortunate to have funds come in as they have,” said Hedrick, the campaign chair of United Way’s Board of Directors.

Each year, the more than 1,400 U.S. branches of United Way hold fundraisers to help non-profit, tax-exempt charities. The Lincoln County campaign supports 15 local organizations, some of which couldn’t operate without United Way’s help, Sigmon said.

The list of agencies benefiting from the campaign includes the American Red Cross, Communities in Schools, West Lincoln Rescue and the Lincoln County Coalition Against Domestic Violence.

United Way’s goal for the year is based on the needs of its member agencies, but Hedrick and the board always hope to exceed it.

The board, a group of 24 volunteers, raises money primarily by asking companies to run in-house campaigns. Businesses will do a variety of things, from raffles and food sales to executives lettings their employees rub pies in their faces for money. Companies will also offer days off or prizes to employees who meet a certain level of donations.

For more information on how to donate money to United Way, contact Sigmon at 704-732-8055.

© 2001 Lincoln Times-News  

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