Wilson County United Way reaches two-thirds of fundraising goal

After a disappointing start to its fundraising campaign, the United Way of Wilson County has raised over $200,000 dollars to date to support its various agencies throughout the county.

Officials are hopeful that the final push will help them reach their goal of $300,000.

"We're a little better than two thirds of the way" to reaching the goal, said Executive Director John McMillin.

McMillin believes that the drop in gas prices since the onset of the fundraiser was a partial contributor to the increase in donations.

"We were worried at first because when we started our campaigns the gas prices were high, and we were concerned that people wouldn't be able to give like they normally would," he added.

The number of donations from local companies as well as individuals have increased since the change.

"We've had a lot of great participation," Chairman of the Board Chris Crowell said.

The organization is currently in the process of putting together a special group to end the campaign. Crowell noted United Way kicked of the campaign with a similar group dubbed The Pacemakers" which was credited with raising a third of the goal.

"We're pretty excited about that," he said.

The campaign organizers hope to reach the $300,000 within the next couple of months.

"With the folks we have talked to, we expect to reach or pass our goal" in that time, Crowell said.

Staff Writer Kimberly Jordan can be reached at 444-3952 ext. 16 or by email at kimberly.jordan@lebanondemocrat.com.