United Way of Marion County is one month away from announcing its final results from the annual county-wide campaign and is about 15 percent, or $300,000, away from reaching the $2.1 million dollar goal set by the Board of Directors in the summer.  In its 50th year of raising funds for local human service agencies, the campaign has the following highlights to share:

• The Pacesetter Campaign, companies held their workplace giving campaigns in the summer, gave the campaign a boost by kicking off with $315,000.
• Publix Super Markets came in with an outstanding 40 percent increase, raising approximately $350,000 which includes a 70 cent match of employee contributions.
• The Marion County Public Schools have maintained their level of giving at $270,000 considering the changes to employee pension contributions.

The funds raised from the campaign will support local programs focused on making an impact in the areas of education, income and health.  The United Way currently supports 21 local programs and is in the process of accepting RFP applications for a two-year funding cycle, which will begin July 1, 2012.

There is still time to step up and organize a fundraiser and /or schedule an employee campaign for your group or organization.  Fundraisers of any size and individual gifts are also needed.

"Many people ask when the "cut-off" is for the United Way.  I always say that there is no deadline.  Donations are accepted year-round, the needs in our community must be addressed 12 months a year,"  said Maureen Quinlan, president of the local United Way.

To donate visit, https://volunteer.truist.com/cwomc-10/donate/ or mail a check to PO Box 1086, Ocala, Fl 34478.