Maurice Henry, Associated Wholesale Grocers' senior vice president/division manager, worked on United Way of the Ozarks' campaigns for three years before becoming campaign chairman this year. In an Oct. 20 report, Henry said nearly $1.44 million had been raised. While the official 2009 campaign ends Oct. 31, United Way will accept donations through the end of the year.
Q: With the campaign approaching its Oct. 31 deadline, the campaign is at 41 percent of its $3.5 million goal. How confident are you that the goal will be reached?
A: We feel very comfortable in where we're at right now, given that we have a lot of company campaigns that are running later this year.
Q: According to the Association of Fundraising professionals, total giving dropped more than 5 percent in 2008. It also appears that, nationwide, 2009 is on track for another decrease. Are you noticing that at United Way of the Ozarks?
A: To a certain extent, it's happening with certain sectors that are impacted by the economy. Take the automotive industry, for example. They're feeling tremendous effects from the economy. But across the board, it is not a downward trend in Springfield and our surrounding area.
Q: That said, it seems the Community Foundation of the Ozarks' $25,000 leadership challenge grant is critical to meeting the goal. How much has been raised through it?
A: Right now, and keep in mind that this is early in the reporting phase, we're at $10,000 in new leadership gifts. It was phenomenally helpful. Keep in mind that to qualify for leadership level, it requires a donation of $500. ... If we're successful in achieving that, the total benefit to the campaign would be $50,000. It will go a long way in helping us achieve our goal this year.
Q: United Way of the Ozarks is on pace to exceed its 2008 volunteer total of 2,000 individuals. Why do you think that is?
A: By and large, I think the health of our overall area is probably better than many other areas of the country. Those people that are employed, I think, are taking a greater interest in stepping up and helping the United Way campaign be successful.
Q: What would a nonprofit need to do to persuade you to personally donate?
A: Primarily, it's the cause. I'm most interested in supporting organizations that support our local community. In other words, the money has to stay here.
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