More than $1 Million to be Disbursed to Local Agencies

 BEND, OR (July 24, 2007) – In the midst of a weak economy comes good news for local agencies.  The United Way of Deschutes County announced today a 4.8 percent increase in funding commitments for 2008/9.  The $1,136,343 package—the largest ever for Deschutes County—includes more than $710,000 in allocations and grants for United Way’s 23 partner agencies and an additional $425,444 in contributions earmarked by donors.

 Despite rising gas prices and a declining housing market, Deschutes County businesses and individuals contributed more than $1.55 million during the 2007/8 fundraising campaign, which ended June 30.  This cumulative effort will provide much needed dollars at a time when agencies have experienced a marked increase in the demand for services while revenue sources have dwindled.   

“Once again we’re in a position where the need outweighs the available funds and services,” stated Community Impact Committee chairman Mike Stanley of SELCO Community Credit Union.  “Yet during challenging circumstances is when it becomes crucial to address and resolve problems before they escalate and have an even more dramatic impact on the community as a whole.”  He added, “That’s why we appreciate every dollar pledged and every hour volunteered.” 

Last year, residents of Deschutes County sought and received the following services: 

United Way of Deschutes County
2008/9 Fund Distribution Plan
	Focus		Reported # Served		$$ Directed for
			2007/8		2008/9
	Meeting Basic Needs		45,307		$     284,566
	Shelter, food, assistance.
	Youth on Track for Success		19,559		$     242,537
	Services to educate & support.
	Safe from Violence & Abuse		8,139		$     205,577
	Safe, secure sanctuary, prevention.
	Great Start in Life		14,768		$     118,072
	Evaluation & services.
		Subtotals:	87,773		$     850,752
		Additional Donor Designations:			$     285,591
				Total:	$ 1,136,343

 A brief overview of the full fund disposition plan and partner agency listing is available.

 

Blood, Sweat & Cheers…
the 12^th Annual Days of Caring

With sunny skies and record-breaking temperatures the 12^th annual Days of Caring took place on May 16^th & 17^th.  More than 500 volunteers—both corporate teams and individuals—expended their time and energy on 73 projects that benefited non-profit agencies in Deschutes County.

 A Friday mid-day lunch at the Bend Armory brought together volunteers, sponsors and agencies for food, prizes and messages of gratitude and encouragement from the United Way staff and board members.  Photographers volunteered their time and expertise to capture the day for keepsake photos given to each team member.

 The scope of the projects and the enthusiasm of the volunteers, despite temperatures in the 90’s, made this year’s event a huge success.  Flowers were planted, bicycles refurbished, buildings painted, playgrounds cleaned up & repaired, dogs washed and more.  We can stand proud of the incredible effort to give back, one and all, to the community in which we live, work and play.

 The 12^th annual Days of Caring was sponsored by SELCO Community Credit Union.

More Days of Caring Info>>>