With about 70 percent of participating companies reporting results, the United Way of Roanoke Valley community campaign has raised $4,223,019.

This is about $300,000 ahead of the total one year ago, according to Campaign Chair John Heitz.  “People seem to be responding to the challenge of making greater impact on our community,” he said. “Our ability to achieve more by working together depends on everyone’s participation.”

            Friday was the deadline for most campaigns, and results will push the campaign total higher almost daily until year-end. At the September kickoff, Heitz said that achieving the goal of greater community impact would require topping 2003 results of $6.3 million.

“Improving lives is our mission, and the community campaign is an important strategy in achieving that mission,” he explained. Funds are invested in programs serving four impact areas: children and youth, families, seniors and health and self-sufficiency.

Currently, that includes 66 local health and human service programs operated by 28 partner agencies. Services are available to residents of Roanoke, Salem, Vinton and the counties of Botetourt, Craig and Roanoke.

 “We’re in the home stretch, and grateful for the momentum created by donors who have already made their pledge,” Heitz added. “If you’ve not yet made your gift, please join us in helping address what matters in our community."