United Way ready to kick off campaign

The United Way of Putnam County has raised its fund raising bar this year by $25,000.

The 2006 kick-off breakfast for the new campaign, Fortune 2006, will take place on Wednesday. The goal for this year is $250,000.

Executive Director of the Putnam County United Way Cathryn Ensley said the United Way is stepping up its goals.

"We definitely think it's doable," Ensley said.

The Putnam County United Way stands firm in the national motto of "Community Matters" as it was able to fund 15 local organizations last year. Yet, she said this has also been a time for the organization to step out on its own.

This year the United Way is not only able to help through the donations of the members of the Millennium Club, a club of donors who give at least $1,000, but through the new President's Club. The President's Club will recognize donors who give at least $500.

Plus the new year offers different chances for anyone to be involved. On Oct. 27, the United Way of Putnam County will be partnering with the Chamber of Commerce for an evening of art. At the very end of the year the Walden Inn will also be involved by hosting a New Year's Eve event, said Ensley.

Ensley is very excited about the upcoming year and all it has to offer.

"This is a wonderful time for the United Way to just grow," Ensley said.

Yet, as a member of this community she wants to reassure people that their money does not leave Putnam County.

"The monies that people donate stay here in Putnam County," Ensley said.

The 2006 kick-off breakfast for the United Way of Putnam County will take place on Wednesday, Sept. 6 at 7:30 a.m. at the Walden Inn Social Center. Anyone interested in attending or wanting more information can contact Ensley at the United Way of Putnam County at 653-5638.