When going gets tough, the tough … raise money

This year’s theme for the annual United Way campaign fund drive is "What happens when you give to United Way?" While it’s an intriguing slogan and undoubtedly a question worthy of examination, those close to the campaign here in Snohomish County are likely feeling the urgency of an unwritten sub-theme — more along the lines of "when the going gets tough, the tough get going."

Acknowledging the challenges of our local economy, the goal this year is down sharply from the one set a year ago. While it’s realistic, it’s also sobering. Our state boasts the nation’s highest unemployment rate, putting further stress on the already burdened social service infrastructure. The reality is that we have more people in need and fewer dollars to support them.

The good news comes in the form of a dynamic and experienced campaign leadership team with a positive story to tell. They’re not wasting time with a "woe is me" attitude, they’re rolling up their sleeves and going to work on behalf of our community. Now, more than ever, they deserve our support.

The official campaign season kicked off on Sept. 13 and company campaigns are underway all over Snohomish County. For some organizations that means a lot of hoopla and fanfare with contests, prizes and fun used to deliver United Way’s message. In other places, the campaign may be low-key, with just a single paycheck stuffer to encourage participation. Either way, employees ought to pay attention and step up if they can to support this important effort.

If you work for a company or organization that doesn’t have a United Way campaign, there’s a huge incentive for starting one this year. The Boeing Co. is encouraging first-time campaigns in the form of a $60,000 challenge grant. Boeing will match new corporate gifts dollar-for-dollar and double the money raised in new employee-based campaigns. We’re willing to bet that company executives wouldn’t turn down the offer of energetic volunteers willing to step up and organize a campaign.

As you consider a donation to this year’s effort, you can be assured that there is no more efficient or effective way to leverage your charitable giving dollars than through a contribution to the United Way. To find out more, visit its Web site at www.uwsc.org.

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