Sometimes an annual event like the United Way fund-raising campaign can blend into the background; because we’ve heard so much about it in past years, it doesn’t always catch our attention each time the campaign starts up again.

This year, however, the sense of urgency is ratcheted up a notch. Non-profit agencies funded by the United Way face the dilemma of more demand for their services in a still-sluggish economy. At the same time, many are seeing their funding from grants and other sources cut as state and local governments tighten their belts in response to the state budget deficit. Those two problems add up to unfulfilled needs right here in Freeborn County.

That’s why paying attention to this year’s United Way drive is as important as ever. The organization raises money to help fund the efforts of local nonprofits, and it all depends on the generosity of the community.

People will be hearing more about the United Way over the next few months. But when you hear it this year, or when pledge forms are passed out at work, remember the need, and remember that anything each person can do to help, no matter how small, can add up to big things.