United Way may exceed their goal

0 Comments | La Crosse Tribune, Dec 23, 2004 | by Schott, Kate

A fund-raising campaign benefiting the United Way of the La Crosse Area, Inc. could receive more money than organizers had hoped for.

"We are within a few thousand dollars of meeting our goal" of $1.632 million, campaign co-chair Brad Sturm said Wednesday at a news conference at Coulee Bank. "Although we might be close, we haven't crossed the finish line yet."

Brad Sturm said "money is, coming in at all times" so he could not give an exact amount collected thus far. He said he is confident the goal would be met and possibly exceeded.

The 2005 campaign kicked off in September. Nearly, 10,000 individuals have donated personal gifts to the campaign, Sturm said, as well as 241 businesses.

Contributions are still being accepted, he said, and if made before Dec. 31, can be deducted from 2004 taxes.

The funds donated to the United Way are distributed to 31 area agencies who use the money on programs for youth, families or people in crisis.

Campaign Director Kate Wooden said even if the goal is surpassed, the not-forprofit umbrella organization still will fall short of what agencies are asking for. About $1.8 million has been requested so far, she said,

Lynn Sturm, the other campaign co-chair, said many of the businesses that have donated have increased the amount they've contributed, possibly because employees are giving more.

"It's wonderful when people can feel blessed in their own lives and say, 'gee maybe I can help out and contribute to someone who is not as fortunate as I am,"' she said.