Continuously serving Kosciusko County since 1854
Elvis sang at the 1998 United Way campaign kickoff Friday morning.
Or rather, Elvis impersonator Lonnie Witham sang "Love Me Tender" and "Wonder of You."
The campaign theme for this year is "Building a Caring Community." United Way, celebrating its 40th anniversary, hopes to raise $950,000 by Oct. 31. They have raised $71,591 so far and are ahead of last year.
United Way board member Kevin Dierdorff said, "The services of United Way remain constant. They have the services that we all depend on."
The organization provides funding to local day care centers and to organizations that provide services to the physically and mentally challenged and to seniors. Relief during disasters is also included.
Pacesetter plaques were handed out by the United Way to five local businesses that showed excellence in raising funds.
The Bowen Center was awarded a plaque for its employees' hard work and dedication in raising money and awareness. They increased their participation this year.
Maple Leaf Farms set a goal of $11,000 for United Way and raised $21,738. YMCA adopted a goal of 40 percent higher than the previous year and doubled its contributions. Othy did not reach its goal, but increased contributions by 15 percent over last year. Othy has raised $27,338 for United Way.
Mutual Federal had 92 percent participation and increased its contributions by 49 percent.
Money raised locally by the United Way stays in the area, Dierdorff said.
