By Liz Beavers
lbeavers@newstribune.info
managing editor
KEYSER — The official kick-off for the 2010 fund raising campaign is not until next week, but the County United Way of Mineral County has already raised almost half of its $100,000 goal for the year.
“We already have $45,000,” campaign chairperson Kay Vaughan told the News Tribune, noting that the money has been raised just since the July 15 breakfast meeting held in Potomac State College's Davis Center.
It was at that meeting that Gary Wilson, chairman of CUW Mineral County, announced that Vaughan would be chairing the fund drive.
“I'm so proud of the small businesses around here who are supporting County United Way,” she said, noting that “even the 'mom and pop' stores are contributing what they can to the charity.”
Every little bit counts, she adds.
“You know, $25 is $25 ... it all goes toward the bigger picture,” she said.
Vaughan also praised NewPage, the Western Maryland Health System, and ATK, who have been consistent supporters of County United Way.
County United Way raises funds to help a wide variety of agencies which serve Mineral County. Among them are:
Associated Charities, which provides medications to clients on an emergency basis.
Big Brothers, Big Sisters, which pairs disadvantaged children with adult mentors.
Boy Scouts of America.
The Developmental Center and Workshop of Keyser, which provides transportation to and from jobs, programs and services for adults with developmental disabilities.
The Family Crisis Center, which provides assistance and education for victims of domestic violence.
The Piedmont Library.
The Western Potomac Chapter of the American Red Cross, which sponsors visits by the bloodmobile to collect blood units for local hospitals.
The American Red Cross, which provides assistance to victims of fires, floods, or other emergencis.
The Girl Scouts.
The Salvation Army, which provides emergency assistance and seasonal assistance.
The Tri-Towns After School Program, which provides tutoring, mentoring and enrichment programs for children in grades 1-8.
The Foster Grandparent Program, which provides tutors, mentors and role models for Mineral County students.
The kick off dinner for County United Way of the Potomac Highlands, the umbrella organization which oversees CUWs in Mineral, Hampshire, Allegany and Garrett counties, will be held Wednesday, Aug. 26, at 6 p.m. in the Lane Center on the campus of Frostburg State University.
Keyser, W.Va. —
