Through the generosity of the community, the United Way of Merrimack County raised $2.12 million during the 2009 campaign. The announcement was made at the United Way's annual meeting.
The annual campaign depends on the caring power of hundreds of volunteers and staff. However, it is the vision, determination and leadership of the campaign chair that guides that team to success. Jim Bassett of Orr & Reno, the 2009 campaign chair did just that.
Although a challenging year, expectations were exceeded thanks to the hard work of Jim and the campaign cabinet volunteers: Ron Wilbur, Steve Camerino, Bill Klubben, Bob Larsen, Todd Fahey, Jan Moyer, Jackie Whatmough, Craig Savage, Kirk Leoni, Jerry Madden and Eileen Gfroerer.
Next year's campaign will be led by Steve Camerino of McLane, Graf, Raulerson & Middleton Professional Association.
Donations raised during this year's campaign will go toward:
– Community programs: In 2009, United Way facilitated investments in 47 programs supported by 33 qualified partner agencies in Merrimack County.
– 211: Inpiduals can call 2-1-1 24-hours a day to get connected to services in our community (such as finding childcare or rent assistance). In 2009, specialists responded to 34,955 inquires in statewide and 4,112 in Merrimack County.
– Free tax preparation: Families with a household income not exceeding $49,000 had access to free tax preparation offered by AARP at the UWMC office.
970 returns were filled from the office with $1,329,306 in total refunds.
