United Way campaign at quarter point

Nevada Daily Mail

The United Way fundraising campaign has reached just over a fourth of the amount needed this year.

The goal for the campaign is 112,000, which will help support 18 local agencies.

"So far we have 35,400," estimated Director Peggy Tedlock. "We do not receive most of our Corporate Challenge gifts until December. Many of those do payroll deductions.

"We are getting donations from our mailings almost every day. We sent out over 9,000 letters the first part of October.

"We also usually receive some Foundation grants that have not been received yet. The biggest majority of our money comes in December each year."

The United Way member agencies include a variety of non-profits and community organizations.

Community Outreach's main focus is providing food, but can also help those needing emergency help with rent and utilities on a limited basis.

Birthright helps those dealing with unplanned pregnancies. Counseling, maternity and baby needs are offered.

Ozarks Trail Council Boy Scouts of America and Girl Scouts of the Missouri Heartland provide programs for youth.

The Vernon County Child Advocacy Council's goal is to educate and prevent child abuse and neglect, with parent education classes.

The Children's Center works for child advocacy with members of law enforcement and the courts in abuse cases.

Special Olympics Missouri, SW Area, offers a physical outlet and a way to participate in competition as an individual and as a team for those with special needs.

The Vernon County Senior Center helps those over the age of 60 with everything from food to transportation to in-home services.

On My Own helps youth and adults with disabilities to reach their goals.

Children's Mercy Hospital provides health and well-being services to children regardless of the ability to pay.

The Neighbors Center offers daytime adult day care for ages 18 and over, providing temporary relief for the caregiver of those who are homebound, elderly or disabled.

University of Missouri Extension of Vernon County provides cooperative extension work such as 4-H, in agriculture and home economics.

The Council on Families in Crisis, Moss House, provides shelter for sexual and domestic violence victims.

The Vernon County Ministerial Alliance Emergency Relief Fund helps transients with financial aid.

Nevada Youth Recreational Baseball has some 200 youth each year competing in its program, learning discipline and teamwork.

American Red Cross/Southern Missouri Region Nevada office helps those who have been the victims of natural disasters and fires as well as supporting local firefighters.

Vernon County Adult Recovery Court provides an alternative to prison, with a goal "of giving the graduates their life back."

Vernon County People for Pets takes in unwanted animals and works to find them homes.

"Many of the agencies would not be able to survive without the generous support of the Vernon County community," said Tedlock.

"A donation to the United Way is 100 percent tax deductible."

Anyone having questions should contact the local United Way office at 417-667-5563.