County supports local United Way organization
United Way of Marion County got a much needed shot in the arm Monday when Marion County Commission agreed to provide $5,000 to the organization.
Local United Way representatives Carl Long, vice chairman, and former chairman Jessie Nikkel addressed the commission regarding the challenges the group has encountered.
The organization was formed in 2002 and became a part of the Harvey County United Way in 2003.
In the fall of 2003, $16,000 was raised. The following year the organization experienced a disappointing campaign and now finds itself needing assistance.
The county funds will be used to pay a part-time employee who will handle the business of the organization.
The Harvey County organization has reduced its monthly fee from $250 to $75 which provides additional funds for the part-time position.
"If this doesn't work, we'll have to reevaluate our organization," said Long.
The group also would like more Marion County residents to serve on the administration board. Volunteers also serve on an allocation committee to determine distribution of the funds.
Efforts are being made to collect United Way contributions through payroll deductions by county residents who work out-of-county.
Youth is the organization's top priority, followed by elderly.
County funds will be drawn from sales tax revenue.
Anyone interested in serving on the county United Way board should contact Nikkel at (620) 382-5604, Long at (620) 947-3961, Kelly Krch at (620) 924-5285.
Send contributions to United Way of Marion County, PO Box 162, Hillsboro KS 67063.
United Way of Marion County is a non-profit organization and all donations are tax deductible.
