[VIDEO] United Way Hits Campaign Goal

JAMESTOWN – With Shel Silverstein’s classic children’s book The Giving Tree as the call-to-action, the 2013 United Way of Southern Chautauqua County Campaign came to a momentous close Tuesday in the Sarita Weeks Reception Room at Jamestown Community College. United Way board members, volunteers, staff, and invited guests all gathered to witness what Campaign Co-Chairs Deb and Deke Kathman called, “a total team effort.” The 2013 Campaign raised $1,325,970, or 101 percent of the $1,315,000 goal.

“Our focus this entire campaign wasn’t on the individual gift, but rather on the number of individuals giving,” said Deb Kathman. “This was a total team effort that involved everyone’s contribution, whether that’s someone’s time or financial gift. Because of this campaign’s success, the vital work of United Way partner agencies can continue to meet the needs of this community.”

The 2013 United Way Campaign officially began last September at the Girl Scouts Service Center on Horton Road, where campaign volunteers received their packets and instructions. Since then, over 40 volunteers have solicited businesses, followed-up with phone calls, and collected pledges.

United Way Board President Jennifer Gibson thanked Deb and Deke for their service throughout the 2013 Campaign.

“Deb and Deke did a tremendous job of organizing this fundraising effort right from the start,” said Mrs. Gibson. “Together, with the rest of our amazing volunteers, our Campaign Co-Chairs skillfully executed this huge task of donor relationship and community engagement. I’m thrilled with the results.”

Campaign Achievement Awards were presented to Jamestown Public Schools, Jamestown Electro-Plating, WCD Boys & Girls Club of Jamestown, Hope’s Windows, Jamestown Board of Public Utilities, Chautauqua Institution, United Parcel Service, Phoenix Metal, Nationwide Insurance – Lawson Agency, and Northwest Savings Banks. In addition, the Sheldon Foundation received the Loyal Supporter Award and Wegmans received the Friend of United Way Award.