Pam Harvey, executive director of the United Appeal, has noticed that, despite the grim financial forecasts, people have been generous.

"We're over halfway to our goal," she said. "People seem to be giving more; we have more new donors."

According to co-chair for the United Appeal at Ohio University, Vice President of Finance and Administration Terry Conry, due to the difficult economy and ensuing budget cuts, the funds that the United Appeal distributes to charities are vitally needed.

"At a time when even basic services are threatened, a contribution to United Appeal is more important than ever," Conry said.

Many OHIO employees designate their gifts to one of the twelve agencies who participate in the United Appeal.

"People can designate their gifts to support the Red Cross, so they can continue meeting people's basic needs with relief after local floods, house fires and other disasters," Conry said. "Or, people could choose to give to Appalachian Community Hospice, so that the hospice can continue to provide curative and rehabilitative health services, hospice services and bereavement support."

Those who wish to give can contact Conry (conry@ohio.edu) or Harvey (giving@unitedappeal.org) for more information.

"Each of the 12 partner agencies provides critical services that support and enrich lives in the Athens community," Conry said.