THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1994, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Sunday, August 28, 1994 TAG: 9408260282
SECTION: SUFFOLK SUN PAGE: 19 EDITION: FINAL
SOURCE: BY SUSIE STOUGHTON, STAFF WRITER
DATELINE: SUFFOLK LENGTH: Short : 36 lines
United Way organizers kicked off the 1994 campaign last week at a luncheon for more than 300 people at the National Guard Armory.
Campaign officials hope to raise $355,000 this year, a hefty increase over last year's goal of $270,000, said city Treasurer Ronald H. Williams, chairman of the Suffolk United Way cabinet.
The Suffolk campaign, which is part of the United Way of South Hampton Roads, exceeded its goal last year by raising $310,000, Williams said. And he is optimistic that the fund drive will do even better this year.
The armory was chosen for this year's kickoff, on Thursday, to allow more people to attend. In the past, the luncheon had been at the Elks Lodge, which can accommodate only about 95 people, Williams said.
And after seeing the turnout and the enthusiasm of those attending, Williams said he believes the new goal is realistic.
The drive benefits about 20 local agencies, including the Red Cross, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, the Salvation Army, the Children's Center, the Suffolk Homeless Shelter and the YMCA.
Various companies and agencies have planned special events to mark their fund drives, and a residential mailing has been prepared.
The kickoff of the regular campaign also marks the end of the Pacesetters drive, where large industries and businesses conduct a campaign to set the pace for the regular drive.
Pledges are to be turned in by Oct. 31. Anyone who is not contacted can contribute by calling the United Way office at 539-1498. by CNB