Combined Campaign sets goal of $45,000 for annual drive

By GWEN ALBERS Western News Reporter

A fundraising goal of $45,000 has been set for this year's Lincoln County Combined Campaign.

Sharon Gunderson, chairwoman for the non-profit agency, is optimistic about reaching this year's goal despite falling $10,000 short of last year's $50,000 goal.

The slower economy could have been the reason for last year's shortfall, but Gunderson believes this year's goal is more realistic.

"Things like jobs have been on a decline from years past, and when Stimson was here, they provided matching funds," Gunderson said.

Volunteers with the Combined Campaign will kick off their annual month-long fundraiser on Sunday, Oct. 1, in hopes of continuing to contribute money to 13 local non-profit agencies.

Money raised during the campaign allows groups like Libby's American Cancer Society to help local cancer victims with finances.

It also helps agencies like Lincoln County Foster Parents buy clothes for children removed from their homes for one reason or another.

Other agencies that benefit will include Lincoln County Literacy Coalition, American Diabetes Association, Boy Scouts of America, Girl Scouts, Lincoln County Family Planning, Lincoln County Crimestoppers, Flathead Valley Chemical Dependency Clinic for Libby and Eureka, Pregnancy Care Center, Lincoln County Community Health Center, and Troy Area Community Association.

Gunderson noted that all donations benefit local agencies, and that's reason to participte.

"Where else can you donate something and effect all agencies," she said.

Many make contributions through payroll deductions at work.

"We would like to try and approach businesses and ask if people want to donate through payroll deductions," said Valerie Parsons, secretary for the Combined Campaign. "Since it's our 30th year, we would hope people would give $30 a month. That's basically $1 a day. If you get paid twice a month, it would be $15 from every paycheck."