United Way of Cass-Clay launched its annual campaign Thursday with a goal to raise $3.8 million to help local agencies and programs.
Campaign Chairman Steve McLister shared his vision with area business, education and agency leaders during the Fargo kick-off, an event to spark momentum for the fundraising effort.
McLister's 2005 goal of raising $3,790,223 is an 8.1 percent increase from the 2004 goal of $3.5 million.
He acknowledged the increase sounds significant.
"But in reality, that's what's needed. That's what our agencies need," he said.
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United Way serves 36 agencies and 53 programs within those agencies in Cass and Clay counties.
Agency needs continue to grow as the population increases, said United Way Vice President and Campaign Director Catie Tinjum.
More nonprofit agencies are also seeking additional funding because other financial sources have been cut, she said.
Although he set the official goal lower, McLister wants to see $4 million raised.
He compared Cass-Clay's 2004 contributions to similar-sized regional cities and said sights need to be set higher.
Cass-Clay's per capita giving in 2004 was $25.42 compared to $60.67 in Sioux Falls, S.D., a city with a 2004 campaign goal of $7.5 million.
"We need to go after Sioux Falls," McLister said. "We want to be on the top of that chart."
The United Way of Cass-Clay campaign has reached 8 percent of this year's goal through Pacesetter contributions.
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Pacesetter companies conduct campaigns or commit corporate gifts in August.
This year's contributions were $289,085, a 14 percent increase from last year.
McLister encouraged business leaders to continue promoting United Way to employees, saying even a $1 donation each week helps.
The campaign kick-off also included the presentation of a $10,000 check from United Way to the American Red Cross for Hurricane Katrina relief efforts.
With the community outpouring of support for disaster victims, McLister asked people to dig deeper in their pockets this year.
"We have to recognize that there are those who aren't sharing in all this growth and prosperity," he said of the Fargo-Moorhead area. "I'm asking you not to forget those at home, too."
Readers can reach Forum reporter Teri Finneman at (701) 241-5560
