By Mindy Ragan Wood
Staff Writer
Canadian County United Way has set the bar high this year for its annual fundraising campaign and adopted two new partner agencies.
Heartline 211 and Compassionate Hands have been adopted to the list of 16 agencies that will receive funding from United Way.
Members from the local board of directors and the campaign fundraising committee hosted its kickoff during the Yukon Chamber of Commerce community coffee at Canadian Valley Technology Center Friday morning.
The goal is $200,000 but the pacesetter campaign jump started the total to $73,628. Pacesetters get a head start by raising as much money as possible prior to the kickoff event.
This year the goal may be more attainable than ever with a challenge put to the public by OG&E.
“We’d also like to thank OG&E who has announced they will double match any first-time company’s contribution,” campaign marketing chairwoman Christina Rehkop said. “This is a phenomenal opportunity for our campaign’s success. So, if you’re standing around a room and not currently participating in the campaign, it’s a perfect way to start.”
Associate Director for the Intervention Crisis Advocacy Network Carolyn Husmann expressed her gratitude for the support.
“Because of your contributions, partner agencies are able to continue to provide crucial services and programs to those who need it most in our community,” Husmann said.
“Please know how much your support means to each of the agencies. I want to encourage you to keep up the good work with your United Way fundraising campaign.”
Rehkop urged the crowd to dig deep again this year.
“Let’s work together to prove how generous the people of Canadian County can be,” she said. “If you’ve already run a campaign at your workplace, thank you. If you’ve already given a gift, thank you. Know your efforts are greatly appreciated. If not, there’s still time. We’d like you to go back into your communities and your workplace and maybe just home and think about making a contribution.”
