The Lycoming County United Way (LCUW) Annual Campaign is closing in on its goal thanks to thousands of community donors from a six year old who donated her birthday money to CEOs of the area’s biggest businesses.

            “We are currently at approximately 85% of our $1,425,000 goal,” stated Dr. Oscar Knade, volunteer campaign chair for LCUW. “Our volunteers are working on one last round of follow-up contacts with potential donors to maximize the funds we will be able to invest in the vital human service programs United Way funds. Our research indicates the potential exists from among previous donors who have not yet contributed and new dollars we are receiving that the goal is within our reach. ”

            “We extended the campaign, which would have typically ended on November 30, because our community is counting on us,” explained Knade. “We feel the goal is attainable and we want to be able to support our program partners and the vital work they are doing each and every day to provide critical and sometimes life saving services to our Lycoming County friends and neighbors.”

            “We are very appreciative of the many generous and loyal supporters that have increased their donations in this exceptionally challenging year,” said LCUW executive director Scott N. Lowery. “We also are very pleased with the number of new donors that got involved this year. Some families included LCUW donations as Christmas presents and hostess gifts. We see more creative ways of giving each year from bringing your lunch to work once a week and donating the money saved to leaving an estate gift. ”

            “Our United Way provides funding for 40 programs in Lycoming County that meet the community’s most critical needs nurturing children, caring for people in crisis, strengthening families, supporting seniors, and serving those with special needs. When you choose to support Lycoming County United Way, you don’t have to choose who to help because your donation helps meet these needs and many more,” added Lowery.

            “LCUW has a solid network of dedicated and experienced volunteers who are working diligently on this campaign and they are making one final push to achieve this highly important goal for all of us. We all believe in the programs United Way funds and don’t want to see them lose funding or have to reduce services. Anyone who has not yet been contacted, or wishes to help us out by making a contribution is asked to contact the United Way office,” concluded Knade.

            To make a contribution or for more information, contact Lycoming County United Way, 1225 Clayton Avenue, Williamsport, PA 17701; call 570-323-9448; or visit www.lcuw.org.