Inside Iowa State

November 19, 2004

Campus is at 88 percent of United Way goal

by Linda Charles

The university community has raised $232,235 (as of Nov. 11) for the United Way of Story County campaign, a "tremendous amount of money," said Frankee Oleson, executive director.

That puts Iowa State at 88 percent of its goal ($265,000) for the campaign that ends early next month. Oleson said she's optimistic the university will make its goal.

"The donations continue to come in," she said. "I'm feeling very positive. It's not too late to give."

The over-all county campaign is taking longer than other years, she said. Some have speculated the presidential election slowed things down.

The campus United Way campaign includes Habitat for Humanity. So far, $36,000 has been raised for the annual "blitz build" (constructing a home in a week), $6,000 over the goal.

Many divisions on campus have surpassed their goals, and several are near their goals, Oleson noted.

Those who would like to contribute should fill out their pledge cards and give them to their division leaders. If you can't find your United Way envelope, you can ask your division leader for a new one or call the county United Way office, 268-5142.

Checks also may be mailed directly to the United Way office (303 Welch Ave., Suite 106, Ames, IA 50014). Be sure to include that you are from Iowa State and which division you are in (see university Web site at http://www.iastate.edu/uw).

The United Way campaign benefits 30 local agencies.