By Teresa Williams

teresa.williams@gaflnews.com

THOMASVILLE — United Way of Thomas County officials are celebrating another goal met.

The organization reached its 2007-2008 campaign goal of $230,000 in May. It began collections Sept. 1, 2007.

“I saw it coming in April but we hit it in May,” Rebecca Cannady, executive director, said. “I think it is very important for people to understand the money stays here to help the citizens of Thomasville-Thomas County.”

United Way supports 19 local non-profit agencies. The majority attend to the welfare of local children and citizens with disabilities.

“It’s very important for United Way to get out and help agencies,” Marvin Dawson, executive committee member, said. “A lot of people need help and we try to help a little bit of everybody.”

Raising funds and awareness for United Way is a year-long process, officials said.

“We contact a lot of the area businesses and get their employees signed up to have funds taken from their paychecks and donated to United Way every pay period,” Scott Milberg, campaign chair, said. “We also contact people who have donated in the past to remind them we are conducting our annual drive. We work hard throughout the year.”

Members also make their rounds at local schools to promote the campaign.

Milberg said, looking at the list of agencies, everyone likely knows at least one person helped by one of the agencies.

Melody McDowell, secretary, agreed. She said it is important for the community to understand the scope of United Way.

“I want people to understand that United Way is extremely valuable to community,” she said. “It really is the umbrella.”

But, a goal met does not mean campaigning for funds ends.