United Way of Albany County Annual Fund Drive Coming Up Short

United Way of Albany County says the donation goal for this year's annual fund drive may not be reached.

The non-profit organization said Monday that most of the expected donations are accounted for, but the goal of $500,000 is about $15,000 short with one month to go.

“I’ve lived in Laramie a long time and know the fabulous spirit of the people in this community," Campaign Co-Chair Mike Peck said in a release, "I’m confident that together we can reach our goal by the time the campaign wraps up.”

United Way of Albany County raises and distributes funds to seventeen agencies in the Laramie area like the American Red Cross, ARK Regional Services, Developmental Preschool and Daycare, Eppson Center for Seniors, Hospice of Laramie, Laramie Soup Kitchen, and the Laramie Youth Crisis Center.

Many of these agencies rely heavily on United Way funding. The organization says it is the largest source of non-governmental funding for all seventeen member agencies around Laramie.

“Contributions to the United Way fund critical human service needs throughout our community, and this year we will be supporting 17 different agencies," Paul Heimer, Executive Director of United Way said. "One of the cool things about donating to the United Way is that our money gets leveraged - meaning the agencies we support get matching donations with United Way money. I hope we can reach our goal so that we can maximize the support for the agencies.”

The annual United Way campaign runs from mid-September through early February.

Donations to this year’s campaign can be made on the United Way website or by mailing a check to United Way of Albany County, 710 E. Garfield St. Suite 240, Laramie, WY 82070.