Mercer County United Way concludes 2002 campaign

SHARON, Pa. -- The United Way of Mercer County finally has closed the books on a tough 2002 campaign.
Jim Micsky, UW executive director, said the final report on the drive that began last September shows campaign pledges of $954,552, nearly $200,000 less than the $1,150,000 goal.
Nevertheless, the agency is able to hand out nearly $800,000 to help support 24 local human service agencies, Micsky said, speaking at the United Way annual dinner Wednesday at Sharon Country Club.
Micsky said he anticipates about a 5 percent pledge loss, reducing the actual campaign revenue to about $907,000. Administrative costs will run about $130,000, he said.
Finance wasn't the only order of business during the annual meeting.
Top volunteer
W. Arthur Heckathorn of Sharpsville, a 27-year employee of National City Bank, was honored as Volunteer of the Year.
Heckathorn has been a longtime member of the United Way board of directors and its executive committee and also has served for 10 years on its allocation committee.
He is a former volunteer with the Boy Scouts French Creek Council, serving on its executive council, and is a former school director at Notre Dame School in Hermitage.
He also serves as a lector at Notre Dame Church.