Local United Way kicks off 2012 campaign

SaDonna Thompson, project director for the Sikeston/Bootheel Area United Way looks over paperwork with United Way board members Chester Cardwell (left), David Carnell (center) and Greg Comer (far right) on Tuesday afternoon. David Jenkins, Staff

SIKESTON -- The Sikeston/Bootheel Area United Way has kicked off its 2012 campaign with a six-figure goal.

"This year, we are aiming to raise $105,000," said Chester Cardwell, chairman for this year's campaign.

The group, which covers an area stretching as far west as Poplar Bluff and south to Portageville, raised more than 100 percent of the 2011 goal of $95,000, bringing in about $116,000.

And already more than $10,000 has been brought in for 2012.

Prior to the kickoff, an advanced mailing is sent to homes in the area the local United Way serves, said Glenna Shy, executive director. "We got really great results from it again this year," she said.

One of the giving mechanisms that helps the United Way continue to raise its goal year after year are payroll deductions through local companies. In 2011, around $70,000 was collected in this way.

In payroll deductions, employees often pledge just a few dollars per paycheck, Shy noted. "So this really shows the power in numbers," said Shy. "By the time all of them do it, the amount adds up to a big number."

While the United Way depends heavily on payroll deductions to meet its goal, Shy reinforced that the support of small businesses and individuals is also integral to the group's fundraising success.

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