The High Country United Way came in at 84 percent of its 2008 goal by raising a total of $525,006.

“Though I hate we missed our goal, we should all be proud of this campaign as I think in this economy, this is really a very respectable number. We just want to thank the community for their generous support,” said Jason Triplett, board member and campaign chair.

“Numerous first-time givers made donations this past year,” added Linda Slade, executive director. “Obviously, they see our work as critical to the well-being of the community, and I’m pleased that we have more donors interested in the work we do. We pushed very hard the last several weeks, and folks stepped up to the plate to help us — that’s good news.”

Giving through the High Country Women’s Fund accounted for approximately $95,000 of the $525,000 raised.
“While the gifts to the women’s fund does count in our total money raised, those gifts are allocated separately by the women’s fund leadership to nonprofits in the community – most of them being United Way partner agencies,” Triplett said.

“We know our shortfall will unfortunately impact our ability to fund the quality programs of our partnering agencies,” Slade said. “But we will do the very best we can to try to fund programs that will make a lasting impact. These are unbelievably tough times, both for those in need, and for donors who have found that they don’t have the resources to give as they have in the past.”

Serving Avery and Watauga counties, the High Country United Way supports 24 funded partner agencies that provide programs for children, youth and older adults.