Ocala, Fla. (February 2, 2010) --- The United Way of Marion County announced that it has reached 90 percent or $2,074,500.00 million dollars of the goal set in August. The goal set by the United Way board of directors was $2.3 million dollars, a 5 percent increase over the amount raised in 2008.

"Although we didn't hit goal this year, many organizations saw a tremendous increase in overall giving compared to the previous year. They chose not to blame the economy rather they used it as a reason to rally their employees to support the community," Fechtman said. "There were some companies who had strong campaigns and still fell short of goal, but overall the companies who focused on their campaigns were very successful."

Fechtman said that this year's campaign also saw an increase in donations from retired citizens, which proves that Marion County remains a wonderful place to live, and because of the generosity of our donors and United Way will be able to support local agencies in providing much needed services to Marion County residents.

More than 60 agency programs have applied for funding this year with requests totaling more than $3.1 million dollars, representing a 16 percent increase in requests and 23 percent increase in dollars requested. Currently, allocation volunteers are reviewing the applications and will be making recommendations on funding to the United Way board of directors in April.

In Marion County, 60,000 people, or nearly one in five residents, utilize the services provided by United Way funded programs, but only 9,000 people, or 3 percent of the county contribute to the United Way. Those programs provide food and shelter for the homeless, a safe haven and counseling for battered and abused women and children, job training for the blind and those with disabilities, and emergency relief services for those facing economic hardship or family tragedy, among many other services.

For more information about the United Way of Marion County visit www.uwmc.org or call 352-732-9696.

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