Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: TUESDAY, November 14, 1995 TAG: 9511140085
SECTION: VIRGINIA PAGE: C-4 EDITION: METRO
SOURCE: LESLIE TAYLOR STAFF WRITER
DATELINE: LENGTH: Medium
The organization has raised $4.3 million since its fund drive began in September, Ben Jenkins, president of First Union National Bank of Virginia and chairman of this year's campaign, said at a progress report luncheon at the Roanoke Airport Marriott.
Jenkins predicted that United Way will make its goal next month. It would be the first time in seven years that United Way has reached its goal.
The $5 million goal is a 5 percent increase - $236,000 - from the amount raised last year. And it is the largest increase of any United Way affiliate in Virginia.
United Way of Roanoke Valley wrapped this year's campaign around a football theme. The kickoff event and progress reports have featured tailgate-style luncheons, a huge football field backdrop, lighted scoreboard and NFL Hall-of-Famers as guest speakers.
Mercury Morris - a member of the undefeated 1972 Miami Dolphins who spent 3 1/2 years in prison for trafficking cocaine - delivered Monday's address. Morris stepped away from football hero-gone-wrong remarks and instead spoke of individual commitment to contributing, of congressional attacks on social service programs and of money spent on the nation's space program.
"Nobody really cares about people anymore except the United Way," Morris told 400 United Way volunteers and supporters who attended the luncheon. "It's real easy for these guys in Congress to cut the school lunch program after they've had their breakfast."
Morris said he'd heard a news report Sunday about experiments that were to be conducted during the Atlantis space shuttle mission.
"I think of all the people down here who need help, and these guys are seeing if they can grow grass on the moon or pour water from a cup," he said. "There are people who need shelter and clothing, who need direction, purpose. The futility around us is what makes [United Way] so important."
United Way of Roanoke Valley provides funds for more than 70 health and human service programs provided by its 36 partner agencies.
"Having a successful campaign is so important, because thousands of people in the Roanoke Valley need the services that United Way helps provide - services such as affordable day care, child abuse prevention, shelter for victims of domestic violence, and many other vital programs," Jenkins said.
Two footballs - one signed by the Pittsburgh Steelers and another by the Kansas City Chiefs - were auctioned during Monday's luncheon, with proceeds going to the United Way.
The Steelers ball went for $160. The Chiefs ball - one of the last team balls signed by Joe Montana before his retirement - went for $500.
by CNB