The United Way Estevan’s goal for their 40th annual telethon later this year will be a little lower than last year’s objective, but it is still an ambitious goal.
The organization hopes to raise $325,000 during this year’s telethon, which will happen on Oct. 14 and 15. The money will be directed towards the United Way’s 15 member agencies.
Last year’s goal was $338,000. More than $321,000 was raised during the telethon, and then the United Way’s board kept working after the broadcast to fetch the remaining funds. They reached their goal in mid-December.
Local United Way president Christa Morhart said the allocations committee is responsible for setting the goal. They met with representatives of the member agencies, and considered the state of the local economy, before determining the goal.
“We felt that a goal of $325,000 is still attainable, because Estevan has a history of giving back to the community,” Morhart told the Mercury.
The member agencies’ needs have increased during the economic slowdown.
“Most of the member agencies indicated their services have gone up more than 50 per cent during the past year, and they’re saying it’s directly related to the various economic conditions and the stressors on families right now,” said Morhart.
The allocations committee discussed having a goal lower than $325,000, but their confidence in the support from the people and the businesses of the Estevan area caused them to believe that $325,000 could be reached.
It will be a challenge to reach their objective, but with everybody pitching in, Morhart believes they will attain it.
Morhart noted this is likely the earliest they have set a goal. Most years it is set in June. But their member agencies have received support from the United Way for a while, so they were able to quickly finalize their objective.
Even though the telethon is nearly five months away, the United Way is already looking for entertainers, volunteers and others needed to make the show happen.
“This will be our 40th year this year, so it’s going to be a special anniversary year, so we’re hoping, maybe, to get some new entertainment as well as all of our go-to entertainment that’s been coming out for years,” she said.
Morhart added that while they are preparing for the telethon, they are also focused on the upcoming Day of Caring, which will happen on June 8. It’s not too late to apply to have a project completed. Yardwork and other tasks that can be completed during a day are ideal for the Day of Caring.
Volunteers are also needed for the event.
Anyone who wants to be part of the Day of Caring can visit www.unitedwayestevan. com, or contact Deb Knight at the United Way Estevan office at 306-634-7375, or email her at admin@unitedwayestevan.com.
