Because her company is a strong supporter of the United Way of the CSRA, Joyce Harris thought she knew a little about the organization that funds 19 health and service agencies in Richmond, Burke and Columbia counties, but only recently has she realized how little she knew.

"It's really been an eye-opener to see how much it helps the CSRA," said Ms. Harris, a security manager for Southern Nuclear Operating Co. at Plant Vogtle, who is working as a loaned professional with the United Way during its capital campaign this fall.

The loaned professional program has been in existence for many years, said Rina Powell, the United Way's senior director for resource development. Companies loan an employee to the United Way and continue to pay the employee during the 12-week campaign.

"There's no possible way with three campaign staff that we could run the campaign and be successful without them," Ms. Powell said. "They become an extension of our staff. They go out on CEO calls, run company campaigns, do presentations and do tours of agencies."

The agency tours conducted by the United Way opened Ms. Harris' eyes, she said. Visiting the Augusta Training Shop for the Handicapped, a work center for disabled adults, and Friendship Community Center, which works with mentally ill adults, affected her the most, she said.

"They do such a good thing," she said of the United Way-supported agencies.

Norris Rouse, an engineer for Savannah River Nuclear Solutions at Savannah River Site, said he enjoys working with the United Way as a loaned professional.

"I've seen some of the work of the United Way and am familiar with it. I've known people who have received services, and if it had not have been for the United Way it would have been difficult for them to get back on their feet," he said.

This is the second year Elmer Pickett, an employee of the Southern Co., has been part of the program. He wanted to return because it was a valuable experience, and he feels he can help even more this year.

"It was a learning process last year. This year, I was hoping to hit the ground running," he said.

Six loaned professionals are working with the United Way of the CSRA this year. The others are Larry Laughlin, Tommy Harper and Rosetta Parker-Austin.

The United Way of the CSRA kicked off its fundraising campaign on Aug. 25 with a goal of $4.5 million. The loaned professionals will help raise funds until mid-November.

The United Way will announce how much it has raised at its annual meeting in February.

Reach Charmain Z. Brackett at charmain.brackett@augustachronicle.com.