9/16/99

Contact: Richard Polen, (740) 593-2015

ATHENS, Ohio -- Record-setting campaigns during each of the last two years have given organizers of the Ohio University division of United Appeal the confidence to set a loftier goal of $75,000 this year.

"I firmly believe we can reach even higher than our set goal this year," campus campaign Chair Richard Polen told drive captains at a kickoff breakfast in Baker Center Thursday.

University employees contributed $78,081 last year, 112 percent of the $70,000 goal. Out of 3,000 university employees, 836 pledged an average of $93 last year. In 1997-98, the university division set a record with $71,937 in contributions, surpassing the $68,000 goal.

United Appeal is a not-for-profit organization that raises funds for 15 Athens County social and human service agencies. The countywide goal this year is $180,000. Last year, the county campaign raised $198,714, with Ohio University contributing 40 percent of the total.

"This goal is important for the agencies," campaign Executive Director Skip Logan said. "They are counting on this money. This is a realistic and attainable figure for us, and there are early indications that we are right on track with last year."

Thirty captains are leading volunteers in promoting campus support throughout the fall drive. Pledge cards have been mailed to all employees and donations will be accepted through February.