Dec 03, 2008 - 02:23 PM

By Keith Gilligan

DURHAM -- With the end of the campaign looming, the United Way is half-way to its goal of $1.75 million.

Fundraising campaign chairman John G. Smith said $889,000 had been committed as of Tuesday.

"The numbers are coming in and we're just over half-way to our goal. It's where we expected to be at this point in the campaign," Mr. Smith said.

"Employee campaigns are still going on," he said, adding some continue into December.

The campaign officially ends at the end of December, "although some funds continue to arrive in January. We have our touchdown at the end of January," Mr. Smith said.

"Certainly we're feeling the impact of a troubling economic climate. Some work campaigns and individual donors aren't able to give as much as in other years," Mr. Smith said. "Others are making up the shortfall.

"Ultimately, donors and volunteers alike recognize the programs that are funded by the United Way will be more vital than ever in the year to come," he said.

Employees at Messier-Dowty contributed their highest total ever, giving $65,800, while Nokia employees also reached a new high with a $23,400 donation.

The United Way funds more than 50 programs that touch one-in-three people in the community.

"We're cognizant of the current economic climate," Mr. Smith said, adding the campaign cabinet has to "make sure we knock on every single door. Every dollar is important."

Most of the events in the coming month are "workplace focused," although there will be "specific calls to specific sectors" and the direct mail campaign is continuing, he said.

"I am optimistic we can reach the goal, given where we are right now. It still requires that everyone give what they can," he said.

"We've seen a lot of support at the grassroots level," he said, pointing to such events as the UOIT forensic house event, which raised more than $1,000.

"If there's one message, in the economic climate, we all know these programs will be important in the year to come. Every dollar is important as people come forward to support the way."

For more information or to contribute, visit www.uwayapu.org or call 905-686-0606.