(WNY News Now) – Halfway through its 2024 Fundraising Campaign, United Way of Chautauqua County calls on residents and businesses to unite for a stronger, more resilient community.
Now halfway into its 2024 Fundraising Campaign, the United Ways of Chautauqua County (UWCC) are rallying community support in order to reach this year’s ambitious $1.8 million goal — 100% of which will remain local and go to fund impactful programs in the county.
With a focus on increasing community impact in the coming years, the 2024 Fundraising Campaign is a historic one — as it is the first countywide campaign of the newly merged United Ways of Chautauqua County.
Since kicking off the campaign in September, UWCC staff have been hard at work presenting United Way’s impact in the community to businesses, local government and other agencies.
Gifts made to United Way go to support 48 local programs facilitated by 34 partner agencies. Last year alone, United Way programs impacted the lives of local residents 32,991 times. The generous contributions made by local donors are necessary each year to continue funding those much-needed programs and services.
The time to give is now, and individuals can contribute to the campaign’s success by texting “STRONGERCHQ” to 91999 or by sending in a check to the Jamestown office.
Workplaces and employers interested in running an office payroll pledge campaign should contact Communications and Campaign Coordinator Nick Dean by calling 716-483-1561 or emailing [email protected].
Currently, more than 120 workplaces run payroll pledge campaigns, including school districts, local manufacturers, grocery stores, insurance agencies and other workplaces. Giving through payroll deduction opens up charitable giving to everyone, as it allows employees to donate a small sum from their paycheck each week.
STRONGER TOGETHER
In addition to reaching its goal, United Way’s 2024 Campaign aims to strengthen local programs, drive innovative solutions, and broaden community impact throughout Chautauqua County.
The theme for the campaign is “Stronger Together,” representing both the coming together of the two United Ways as well as what can be achieved by county residents giving collectively.
“We know that working together is going to mean increased capacity, increased innovation and increased community impact for all of Chautauqua County,” said Amy Rohler, UWCC Executive Director. “We are poised to build on past successes and stand ready to do just that with the help and support of the community.”
This year’s campaign is being co-chaired by local leaders Kelly Borrello and Bill Soffel.
“United Way is not just about fundraising,” added Rohler. “We are about mobilizing the community to achieve lasting change and ensuring that the lives of every person and family in Chautauqua County can be meaningfully improved.”
This midway point represents a crucial juncture, and United Way calls on local individuals and businesses to help close the gap toward its $1.8 million goal. 100% of every dollar contributed remains local in Chautauqua County, with the bulk of donations funding essential programs which bolster community resiliency, health, youth opportunity and financial security.