United Way of the Ozarks announced last night it raised $3.82 million during its annual campaign, $171,800 short of its $4 million goal.
The Nov. 21 campaign celebration marked the ceremonial end to the fundraiser, which began Aug. 23 at the
2013 Day of Caring. The organization will continue to raise funds until the close of 2013, with campaigns still wrapping up in the Branson area, according to a news release.
The total marks the second largest in United Way history, just 1.5 percent below
last year's record $3.88 million.
“We are extremely happy this campaign continued to build on the momentum from last year," said Paul Williams, campaign chairman and Springfield Police chief, in the release. "It was a very challenging campaign. Our company campaigns moved forward in spite of a government shutdown and in the shadow of health care reform."
Campaign highlights:
- Dillons grocery stores increased its employee campaign by 43.8 percent.
- Local offices of BKD LLP increased donations by 45 percent, with the national office increasing by 35 percent.
- Pipkin Middle School raised $2,300 more than its 2012 total, up 55.4 percent.
- The Springfield city attorney’s office tallied 51 percent higher.
- The Springfield Fire Department’s campaign came in with a 28 percent increase.
- Habitat for Humanity Springfield boosted employee giving by 90 percent.
- Empire District Electric Co. increased its donations 148 percent over last year with a campaign increase of $25,600.
- Empire Bank hit a 15 percent increase.
- Ollis & Co. shot up 106 percent, donating $8,000 more than last year.
- KOLR 10/KOZL, in their second year holding a campaign, hit an increase of 282 percent.
- CNH Reman LLC went up 76 percent over last year's total.
About 350 companies participated in the 2013 campaign, on par with last year. However, spokeswoman Cindy Howell said factors such as workforce reduction contributed to the overall decrease.
"In the last 24 months, United Way has raised $7.7 million that has been invested into our community," said Jennifer Kennally, United Way of the Ozarks president and CEO, in the release. "That’s a pretty incredible number. Our volunteers should be very proud of what they have been about to do."
Community Foundation of the Ozarks also provided a $40,000 matching grant to United Way, which was used as an incentive to move donors to the leadership level of giving.
United Way of the Ozarks funds more than 60 partner agency programs and initiatives addressing critical health and human services needs in a 14-county area, the release said.[[In-content Ad]]
