The United Way of Cayuga County is celebrating following the conclusion of its annual fundraising campaign.
While official numbers have not yet been released, the nonprofit is pleased to announce that it has surpassed last year’s total amount of $631,000.
This year’s campaign marked a change from previous years. Julisa Stone-Szpaicher explained to Finger Lakes News Radio that, while previous years set a goal based on a specific dollar amount, this year’s goal was based on how many individuals donated to the campaign, highlighting a sense of countywide community.
Stone-Szpaicher added that money raised from the campaign will go to support member agencies performing vital work throughout the county.
“[Funded agencies] use those dollars to support our neighbors primarily within four focus areas, the largest being education programs; then we see a lot of health programs, as well as financial stability programs, and safety net/basic needs programs.”
Stone-Spaicher continued that the need for these services is increasing within Cayuga County.
“This past campaign season, 55% of our community turned to one of those agencies; that’s actually a 5% increase over the year before, so these programs are essential, they’re critical, and we fundraise to make sure these programs are available and our neighbors can use them.”
The official numbers will be announced at United Way’s Campaign Celebration & Community Movie Night, which is scheduled for Wednesday at 5:00p at Auburn Public Theater. The celebration will consist of a pizza party, campaign program announcements, and a screening of the film Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day. The event is free to attend, but registration is required and can be done here.
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