United Way of Marion County kicked off their community fund raising efforts on September 1 by loading community members and supporters onto three charter buses and taking them on tours of funded agency partners. Participants were able to see United Way in action as they visited Heart of Florida Health Center, Salvation Army and Boys & Girls Club of Marion County.

"We talk about the needs all the time," said Maureen Quinlan, president of United Way of Marion County. "But there is nothing like seeing it in person." We are excited to be able to bring people to see the results happen before their eyes. By doing this we are giving people a call to action... to make a difference in the community, by either donating through the campaign, advocating or volunteering around the areas of Education, Income and Health. We are focused on getting people more engaged with our work and it's more than just giving, Quinlan said.

Volunteer campaign co-chairs, Marion County Public Schools Deputy Superintendent Diana Greene and Publix Super Markets District Manager John Goff announced a 2011 campaign goal of $2.1 million. This amount is slightly above what was raised last year. To date, 15 percent has already been raised from the 20 Pacesetter Companies that started their workplace campaigns in July and from other early donations.

"In these challenging times it is easy to expect our neighbor to step up and help. Most likely your neighbor is looking for you to do the same," Goff said. "Each of us must do our part to help Marion County move forward towards recovery."

"The United Way is committed to engaging people is different ways," Greene said. "Giving financially to the campaign is a huge part, but we also need volunteers and advocates to help us accomplish our community goals."

To get involved, visit www.uwmc.org for more information.