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![Michael Ash (left) and Mark Maund sing a song to go with the "Jungle Escape" theme. Annette M. Drowlette/Staff](http://chronicle.augusta.com/sites/default/files/imagecache/superphoto/editorial/images/spotted/77/772602.jpg "Michael Ash (left) and Mark Maund sing a song to go with the "Jungle Escape" theme. Annette M. Drowlette/Staff")
Everyone that can afford should give to this worthy charity.
The sounds of drums, wild animals and the occasional Tarzan yell filled the Bell Auditorium on Monday as officials with the United Way of the CSRA pressed their message: It's a jungle in this tough economic climate.
"This year's goal is going to be a challenge," Dr. Michael Ash, the organization's campaign chairman, said in announcing the $4.4 million fundraising goal. "I feel it's attainable."
Last year's campaign had a goal of $4.5 million, and the United Way raised more than $4.33 million.
Jerry Schneider, the director of economic diversification for Savannah River Nuclear Solutions and the keynote speaker for the kickoff luncheon, said Savannah River Site employees have a history of strongly supporting the United Way.
Employees donate to about a dozen United Way campaigns in the area, including the United Way of the CSRA and the United Way of Aiken.
"We understand times are tough. Our employees are interested in doing what they can," Mr. Schneider said.
He said Savannah River Nuclear Solutions will match 50 cents for every dollar donated up to $200,000.
The United Way of the CSRA supports 40 programs in 18 area charities, including the American Red Cross of Augusta, the Salvation Army and Boys and Girls Clubs of Augusta.
Though the campaign just started, other companies in the area have already stepped up to the donation box and made their pledges.
These Pacesetter Campaign companies include the Augusta Red Cross, Palmetto GBA, Sam's Club, Morgan Stanley Smith Barney, the United Way of the CSRA and its board of directors, UPS and Wal-Mart stores.
R.W. Allen of R.W. Allen and Associates, the chairman of the 2009 Tocqueville Society, which is for people giving annually at the $10,000 or more level, said he increased his giving two years ago after speaking with then-campaign Chairman Mark Maund.
When Mr. Allen asked Mr. Maund what he could do to help, Mr. Maund responded by saying, "Join the Tocqueville Society."
Even with people giving at the higher levels, the organization is looking to donors at all levels.
"It will take everyone" to achieve the goals, Dr. Ash said.
The United Way will announce its campaign totals at its annual meeting in February.
WANT TO HELP?
Most give to the United Way through payroll deductions. To make individual donations or to learn about volunteer opportunities, call 211.
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Comments
Everyone that can afford should give to this worthy charity.
How much of the dollar actually goes to charity? Some "charitable" agents keep 75% as "administrative costs" and use the remaining 25% for the causes they support. I never give to United Way because I do not like some of the "charities" they support; however, there are some more legitimate charities that I do support (St Jude's Childrens Hospital and National Asthmatic Foundation, for example).
The charities the United Way of the CSRA supports can be found in Augusta. They are organizations such as Boys and Girls Clubs of Augusta, the Augusta Training Shop for the Handicapped, the Speech and Hearing Center at University Hospital, the Friendship Community Center, the Salvation Army, the Senior Citizens Council and the Family Counseling Center. These are Augusta charities helping Augusta area residents. I've been to them all and I've seen how all of them help AUGUSTA people. I like knowing my money is staying in my own backyard. These are legitimate charities mable - do some research
Also Mable - only 12 percent of money raised goes toward administrative costs
What a great party! My favorite part was when Deke and friends reinacted a scene from the Tarzan TV series episode "Voice of the Elephant," although I think Fred Russell wasn't a very convincing Jai.
UW also supports organizations I do NOT support--I doubt that they keep only 12% for administrative costs; they will need to prove that to me. Do some research lady a...you might be a bit more surprised than you think.
United way is a RIP OFF... Look up Charlotte NC United Way Scandel. How about 1.2 Million a year for the director. She got caught with her in in the cookie jar. THIS IS A RIP OFF
Give to the community organizations instead
United Way is rift with fraud. The part I hate the most is how employers would threaten and harass employees to contribute so they could have "100% participation" for a fund that is supposed to be VOLUNTARY. It's dishonest from the start and just goes from there.
I've done quite a bit of research Mabel and I know LOTS of people personally on these boards who hold this organization accountable. The United Way of the CSRA is reputable. Don't go by heresay.
ladya: I am NOT going by "heresay." UW is nothing more than a ripoff. If this is YOUR charity of choice, then by all means, support it. There are those of us who do not believe in what they are doing with the monies they collect. For that reason, WE CHOOSE to provide support for more deserving charities.
Would Planned Parenthood be one of thos "charities" UW supports?
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