By Lisa Jensen
Special to The SUN
United Way of Southwest Colorado would like to thank everybody who contributed to the success of our campaign in Archuleta County. Thanks to the support of individual donors and businesses, United Way raised $73,500 in Archuleta County. Individual donors contribute by a payroll deduction at their workplace, by mailing a check or donating online through our secure website. Local businesses sponsor special events, mail donations and encourage their employees to give.
United Way continues to work hard to raise funds for non-profit organizations in Archuleta County that work in the areas of education, health and self-reliance. As government funding at all levels is reduced, and people continue to struggle to make ends meet, these agencies must work harder than ever to raise the funds needed for their programs, all the while seeing an increase in the number of clients they serve and requests for services.
As we wrap up the 2012 campaign, volunteers are hard at work reviewing applications for funding in 2014 and 2015. Meanwhile, we have started planning the 15th annual United Way Golf Tournament, which will take place Aug. 17, 2013.
United Way’s other fund-raising events in Archuleta County include Party ’Round Pagosa, a program in which 30 local restaurants participate; Ski and Save Day at Wolf Creek Ski Area; Cowboy Fast Draw with the San Juan Shootists; and donations from the Four Corners Folk Festival. Jann C. Pitcher Real Estate donates an office to United Way in Pagosa Springs.
The United Way campaign truly is an effort of the entire community. Funds raised in Archuleta County stay in Archuleta County. Local residents are extremely generous and pull together to help one another. Every one of us has a hand in helping one another and building a strong community.
For more information about United Way, contact the local office by e-mailing lisaj@unitedway-swco.org or calling 731-0484.