News - Local

Thursday, Nov. 05, 2009

United Way campaign raises $2.1 million

OCEAN SPRINGS — Donations received in the 2009 United Way for Jackson & George Counties fundraising effort will support the nonprofit’s mission as it enters its second half-century of service.

The group announced Thursday that its golden anniversary, 1950s-themed “Mission Possible: 50 Years Helping Jackson and George Counties” drive raised $2,135,186.50. Though slightly below last year’s record-setting $2.3 million campaign and short of the $2.5 million goal, organizers were more than satisfied with the result in a difficult economy.

“I think this is fantastic, given the economic situation,” said Ellen Cole, president of the UWJGC Board of Directors. “It just goes to show you that people in Jackson and George counties are giving people.”

Results were announced during a wrap-up luncheon at the Ocean Springs Civic Center, where tables were decorated with vinyl records and reproductions of 1950s-era movie posters and vintage cars were parked at the doors.

Guests were invited to wear period costumes such as leather jackets or bobby socks with poodle skirts, entertainment included dancers demonstrating steps including the “jitterbug” and the mood was set by Jackson County Communications Director/Elvis impersonator Ken Flanagan, who provided commentary: “Thank you very much!”

Amy Brandenstein of Chevron and Richard Schenk of Northrop Grumman Ship Systems, co-chairs of the 2009 fundraising campaign, hosted.

“This is an amazing effort, and it takes everyone coming together in our community to make it happen,” Brandenstein said.

Carolyn Moore, director of the United Way chapter, said the drive raised more than enough money to fund commitments to the group’s 22 partner agencies and provide for additional community impact grants, which will be announced in the spring.

Several employers who held internal fundraising drives benefitting the organization stepped up their efforts, Moore said, making up for the shortfall resulting from economy-induced layoffs at other companies.

“We’re just thankful it all worked out,” she said.

Moore also had an anniversary message for United Way supporters: “We hope you will all join us for another 50 years in our community.”