Fundraising falls short by $169,000

A poor economy kept the United Way of the CSRA from meeting its 2008 fundraising goal, but boosters said Tuesday that they didn't miss the mark by much and were encouraged by what they did.

"Our goal was $4.5 million. We had some great successes, and, yes, there have been some challenges. Overall, it was a tremendous year," Walter Dukes, 2008 campaign chairman, said at the organization's annual meeting at the Augusta Marriott Hotel and Suites.

The organization raised $4,331,713, about $169,000 shy of its goal.

United Way President La Verne Gold said Tuesday's meeting was a celebration of the country, the community and the organization's supporters and thanked Mr. Dukes and Jeff Spears, the organization's board chairman, for working tirelessly and being innovative in trying to raise support during a time of economic decline.

"They worked to create awareness opportunities," she said.

Many companies reported increases in giving over last year's campaign, which raised $4,321,000. Other companies had fewer donations because of job cuts.

A fundraising competition among University Hospital, Doctors Hospital and Medical College of Georgia Hospital and Clinics was initiated this year. MCG won in the hospital competition, and Doctors Hospital took honors for the highest per capita giving and leadership giving.

The organization also awarded Michael Stephens with the annual Alvin W. Vogtle volunteer of the year award. Mr. Stephens is a board member at the Friendship Community Center and president of Lots Ministry.

The United Way of the CSRA provides funding for 60 health and human-service organizations in the area.