Tribune staff editorial

The community and the United Way of Freeborn County deserve congratulations for an extraordinary effort these last few months, as the United Way has surpassed its $500,000 goal.

Wednesday, February 13, 2002

The community and the United Way of Freeborn County deserve congratulations for an extraordinary effort these last few months, as the United Way has surpassed its $500,000 goal. Of all years, this was one in which that task was going to be tough.

The nationwide drain on charitable giving caused by Sept. 11 has been well documented. After Americans gave so generously in the aftermath of the terrorist attacks, some have found they can’t give as much to other causes to which they would normally contribute. And the situation was made no easier by the economic downturn hastened by the attacks and subsequent military action.

On top of that, Freeborn County’s economy has suffered this year because of the Farmland fire and the ripple effect of losing hundreds of jobs.

Despite these obstacles, the community recognized the importance of supporting the United Way. By donating to this agency, residents donated to more than a dozen member agencies, each of whom perform a specialized task that makes our community better. A donation to the United Way was and is an investment in Freeborn County.

Kudos to the area’s residents and businesses for making that wise investment.