UNITED WAY OF TRUMBULL COUNTY Allocations will be reduced

The campaign raised about 86 percent of its goal.
WARREN -- Plant closures, retirements and the effects of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks have resulted in reduced allocations for the 29 affiliate agencies of United Way of Trumbull County.
George W. Chestnut, retired director of Ohio operations from Delphi Packard Electric Systems and 2001 campaign chairman, said the campaign raised $2,512,360, or about 86 percent of the $2.9 million goal.
"It is our belief that any fund-raising appeal that generates this level of voluntary effort and contributions -- from companies, organizations and most importantly, thousands of individuals -- must be deemed successful given our economic downturn," Chestnut said.
The allocations are reduced from last year because of the campaign total. The agency's board of directors determined the amount each agency's allocations was reduced based on each agency's ability to raise funds through other sources.
Efforts continue: Volunteers are continuing efforts to raise additional money from local and national firms that have late-running campaigns.
Chestnut said that the 12 largest corporate and employee decreases totaled more than $310,000 and were the result of a deeper than expected local recession.
The campaign realized gains from retirees, education and other professions. Also, United Way's local leadership giving program, Second Century Society, enrolled 33 new members, each contributing $1,000 or more.
"When campaign 2001 began on Sept. 19, we knew this appeal would be unlike any other," said Edward C. Taylor, chairman of the United Way board of directors. "On Sept. 11, we realized how critical a caring community and strong human service network is in helping our neighbors in need."
Allocation process: David L. Kellerman, executive vice president and chief financial officer of Second National Bank, said allocations were the result of a three-month citizen review process. Kellerman, who also is chairman of the budget and allocations committee, said 61 community volunteers participated in the process to recommend allocations for programs and services that offer the greatest degree of efficiency and effectiveness.
Organizations interested in conducting employee campaigns or individuals who wish to contribute to the United Way's annual appeal should contact the United Way office at (330) 369-1000.