ATHENS, Ohio -- During the month of November, Ohio University employees have a chance to help their neighbors by contributing to United Appeal for Athens County's annual campaign, which looks to raise $203,000 countywide.

One out of every two Athens County residents benefit from the funds raised as a part of this annual campaign. All of the funds serve to support projects and outreach in Athens County.

Men's Basketball Head Coach Tim O'Shea and his wife, Beth, are the 2003 campaign Pace Setter Chairs. This year's University Division chairmen are Vice President for Finance Richard Siemer and Dean of the College of Health and Human Services Gary Neiman.

"This is a chance for people to help their community," Siemer said. "United Appeal's work helps people lead better lives around the county through the generosity of others."

In these tough times, United Appeal's role is especially important, Neiman said.

"It feels good to help our neighbors and even a small donation can make a difference," Neiman said. "We all want to improve the quality of life in our community, and provide assistance and caring support in difficult times."

Employees will receive pledge cards through campus mail. Donations can be made via payroll deduction or direct contribution using cash, check, VISA or MasterCard. Employees also can choose to be billed quarterly and can designate money to be given to one or all of the 16 health and social service organizations that this annual campaign helps fund. Donors may also designate their gift to a county other than Athens.

United Appeal serves agencies in four groups: emergency agencies, family and seniors, health services and youth services. Some of the agencies included are the Red Cross, The Salvation Army, Retired Senior Volunteer Program, Appalachian Community Hospice and Big Brothers/Big Sisters.