The Goderich Signal-Star, 2009-12-02, Page 4Goderich Signal -Star, Wednesday, December 2, 2009 - Page 3
United Way steadily approaches campaign goal
Gerrard C nasi
signal -star staff
On October 21, the United Way made a
bold stand: To raise as much money as last
year in the face of tight times and a global re-
cession.
On October 21, the Huron United Way
made a tough choice: To dissolve as an orga-
nization and merge with the United Way of
Perth County.
"I think that everybody has identified we
have just come through a difficult economy,"
said Benita Rooney, United Way campaign
manager for Huron and Perth. "Overall, peo-
ple are very receptive to coming forth with
donations."
The goal for this campaign is $207,001.
Rooney said the United Way has already
raised nearly 40 per cent, the result of work-
place donation programs across the county.
While Huron's manufacturing sector has
been gutted by the recession, those who re-
main feel a sense of responsibility and com-
munity, Rooney said.
'Those who are employed recognize they
are fortunate," she said. "We have weathered
a difficult economy. It's important that every-
body works together to keep our community
strong and vibrant."
In Goderich, Rooney said Sifto continues
to be the largest supporter of the United Way.
However, she said many businesses have
stepped up in their payroll deduction pro-
gram. The popular donation program helps
stretch donor dollars over time.
"People find it's easier on their pocketbook
- comes in over time," she said. "And they get
the tax benefits at the source."
Since their October 21 annual general
meeting, the Huron United Way has been in
the process of winding down and gearing up
for the merger with Perth.
Rooney said public response to the merger
has been very receptive. She pointed to the
Avon -Maitland and Huron -Perth Catholic
school boards as examples of shared services
by Huron and Perth counties.
"People are saying it makes perfect sense,"
she said. "A lot of organizations already do
two counties.
"Nothing is really changed except our geo-
graphic scope."
While the transition is running smoothly,
Rooney said the United Way has recently
been granted government funding for interns
to assist with public relations and marketing.
The funding comes as a Service Can-
ada grant.
Applications for United Way funding
will take place in mid-January. Rooney
said while the annual application process
ensures there are no major changes to
agencies, it also helps develop better re-
lationships with "funder and fundee."
All applications are approved by a vol-
unteer board - not United Way members.
The agencies that receive funding are
held accountable for every dollar, Rooney
said.
The cross -county
back on administra-
tive costs, though
Rooney stressed
every dollar raised
in Huron County
will be put to Hu-
ron County projects
and agencies.
To find out more
about the United
Way's 2009 cam-
paign, call the of-
fice at 1-877-818-
8867.
Sounds of Christmas ring out at Knox Dec. 8
Dominique Millman'
signal -star staff
A variety of sacred, secular
holiday music mixed with a telling
of The Gift of the Magi, the classic
tale of selfless love and giving, is set
to fill the air at Knox Presbyterian
on Dec. 8 for the annual installment
of The Sound of Goderich (SoG),
Christmas Edition.
It's an event that inspire
imagination through melody each
holiday season, and one that has
proved its own staying power within
the community.
According to Wanda Keith,
Tourism and Special Events
Coordinator for the Town of
Goderich, also a member of the
Goderich Laketown Band, the SoG
has developed a special storytelling
feature this year that, she hopes,
will draw interest this year from all
ages.
"The Sound of Goderich is a
family -friendly event," she said.
The music, woven with spoken
installments of The Gift of the Magi,
told by professional storyteller
JoAnn Ras, will give way to more
audience participation than in years
past, Keith added.
Annual players with the SoG
include The Harbouraires, under
the direction of Liz Tolchard; The
Goderich Laketown Band, under
the direction of Jason LeRou>,;
The MacKay Choristers under the
direction of Linda Street, and the
Huron String School, under 'the
direction of Elayne Ras.
"The Sound of Goderich is the
idea of those four groups who
share their joy of singing or playing
music;" said Keith. "Music is one
of those gifts that is more enjoyable
when you share it."
The event is set to take place at
7:30 p.m. next Tuesday. Admission
for adults with a non-perishable
food item is just $10, $12 without
a food donation. Children 12 and
under attend free of charge.
The SoG was established in the
1970s, and now takes place twice
annually in the spring and holiday
seasons. To learn more, visit the
community events page at the
Town of Goderich web site, www.
goderich.ca.
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