CORNING, NY, May 6, 2008 – Thanks to the generosity of the thousands who contributed to the 2007 annual campaign, more than $3 million was directed to programs and services through the 2008-09 Community Investment process. The campaign total was $4,406,750, a record-setting amount for United Way of the Southern Tier.

As a result, $3,622,320 of the total raised, including designated funds, was directed to health and human service programs and initiatives. Of this, $2,855,727 is being committed through 100 programs offered by 57 local partner agencies to provide lasting solutions that help people improve their lives. The balance of the total raised covers an allowance for uncollectible pledges and funds used to cover United Way’s administrative and fund raising expenses. 

Each year, United Way volunteers carefully consider each recommendation in order to uphold United Way’s promise to invest donor gifts wisely – to ensure that every dollar supports programs and initiatives that effectively meet established community needs and deliver results for individuals and families in the Southern Tier. These recommendations are based on the values outlined by United Way:

·         To consider the client need

·         The program’s demonstrated ability to improve lives and build stronger communities

·         How well the program aligns with the mission and vision of United Way

·         How effectively the program uses resources to achieve the desired results, and

·         The program's efforts toward continuous learning and improvement.

“Donors can feel confident they are helping unite the community and that their contributions will create a positive impact that provides for the well being of those who turn to United Way-funded programs for help,” said Daniel Bower, chair of United Way’s board of directors. “Donations to United Way create lasting changes and are a secure investment in the health and human services of our community.”

 To see a list of the 2008-2009 Community investments click here .

About United Way of the Southern Tier

United Way of the Southern Tier (www.uwst.org) is a locally managed non-profit organization focused on effectively mobilizing the caring power of our community to help people improve their lives. United Way of the Southern Tier is the largest non-governmental provider of funding for health and human services in Chemung and Steuben Counties.