COMMUNITY ASKED TO HELP ‘CLOSE THE GAP’
December 20, 2010 – (SALINA, Kan.) – A preliminary count of pledged investments for 2010 to the Salina Area United Way indicates at least a $100,000 shortfall compared to last year.
United Way kicked off its campaign to raise funds for partner programs in September with “Think WE, before me.” Now they are asking everyone to help “Close the Gap” and keep vital programs active in our community.
“The Salina Area United Way needs the help of everyone in the community to close a shortfall from last year,” said Patrick Salmans, Board President. “In 2010, the United Way experienced great increases in the number of people ‘living united’ through volunteerism and community-wide collaborations. People gave generously in workplace campaigns. Now, we need the help of the entire community to close the gap.”
If the gap is not met, people served through United Way will be left without vital community resources,” said Carolyn Peterson, 2010 Campaign Chair. “The United Way is helping everywhere in Salina – giving children the enrichment and tools needed for Kindergarten success and providing moms and dads quality childcare and youth mentoring. Without United Way programs, neighbors and families who are underinsured, uninsured, seeking prenatal care, or children looking to positive mentors in order to avoid risky behaviors will not have the assistance they need.”
In 2010, United Way funded over 17 local programs and collaborated with dozens more to make an impact in the community’s education, financial stability and health. Peterson said she is confident everyone will rally to meet the needs of the community.
United Ways across the country and the state of Kansas are experiencing nearly a ten percent reduction in giving. “We live in a community that is giving – whether it is of time, talent, or in this case, money – the community always comes through. Despite what happens across the state, Salina is a ‘can do’ community,” said Peterson.
The “Close the Gap” campaign to help raise the additional funds needed is asking donors to consider a one-time or additional donation of $20, $200 or $2,000 or more to meet the needs of the community.
“The United Way and it’s partners are needed now more than ever,” said Ted Johnson, board member and chair of the Advancing Community Together for 2020. “No matter the amount of your contribution, it will help men, women and children of our community through childcare enrichment opportunities, financial literacy, youth mentoring or health programs.”
The “Close the Gap” campaign will run from Tuesday, December 21, 2010, through Friday, January 21, 2011. Gifts can be sent to the Salina Area United Way, P.O. Box 355, 128 N. Santa Fe, Suite 3A, Salina, Kansas 67401 or go to our website www.salinaunitedway.org for further information. For questions or to make a donation by phone, call (785) 827-1312.