United Way strives to make its goal in tough economic year

The Daily Star reported the kickoff reception for the 40th year of the United Way of Delaware & Otsego Counties was held Thursday at the National Soccer Hall of Fame.

About 75 people attended the opening of the fundraising campaign that runs through Dec. 31, Executive Director Terry Capuano said.

In the current economy, this will be a tough year to meet the goal of surpassing the 2008 total of $343,000, she said. But she is "cautiously optimistic."

The goal should be attainable when the public realizes that 99 percent of their donations "stays local," she said. The donations help fund programs in qualifying agencies in Delaware and Otsego counties that meet the needs of people.

Nonprofit agencies that receive support for specific programs include Planned Parenthood of South Central New York, Opportunities for Otsego, Salvation Army and Hancock Community Education Foundation. Read more here.