United Way meets goal with $2.2 million

LULING, LA- United Way of St. Charles is excited to announce they have reached over 100 percent of their fundraising goal of $2.2 million.

“Thanks to the continued generosity and support of the St. Charles Parish residents and business community, we are pleased to announce we have not only reached but have exceeded our campaign goal,” said John Dias, UWSC Executive Director.

Currently, United Way of St. Charles has raised $2,200,216 for the 2010-2011 fiscal year beginning in July.

Funds are raised each year to support local agencies providing direct services to St. Charles Parish residents.  In addition, United Way of St. Charles also develops and implements programs that target specific needs such as early childhood education and financial stability.

United Way of St. Charles set the 2009-2010 Campaign goal with the current economic climate in mind.  The goal represented a 3.5 percent decrease over the actual amount raised from the prior year’s campaign.

According to the Philanthropy Journal, a national nonprofit news and resource publication, nonprofits nationwide are expecting 2010 to be a tough year because economic recovery has not yet reached those in need or the organizations that serve them.  The publication also reports that many nonprofits may continue to struggle to cope with the rising demand for services in a tough economy.

Last year, United Way of St. Charles provided over $1.4 million dollars to fund 30 agencies in St. Charles Parish.  In addition, they were also able to build on their current programs such as Project Transition and Success By 6 and develop a new program to target financial stability.

Dias also states, “as the economy continues to recover, St. Charles Parish residents can take comfort in knowing that our organization continues to remain strong and effective.  We are confident that United Way of St. Charles will continue to provide the same level of service that we have prided ourselves on in the past.”