Director cites multiple reasons for outcome

The United Way of Freeborn County fell short of its 2015 campaign goal to raise $598,000.

The organization raised about $535,000, said Executive Director Ann Austin.

Austin said there were several things that contributed to the lower total, including retirements and changes in businesses.

Workplace employee contributions make up about 75 percent of the campaign.

Despite not reaching the goal, Austin said some businesses raised their highest totals ever, including Cargill and Mrs. Gerry’s Kitchen. Streater had its largest campaign in at least five to 10 years, and Albert Lea Select Foods won an award for the most generous campaign, raising more than $109,000.

She said Albert Lea Area Schools and The Children’s Center also had successful campaigns, among others.

Money raised in the campaign will go to support 26 programs with 13 agencies. The goal was determined by the funding requested by the partner agencies.

In addition to these agencies, the United Way has a basic needs funds focused on disaster response and other emergency needs not covered by local programs.

The organization also supports collaborations that focus on domestic violence, early childhood development, food access for seniors, mental health and quality out of school time.

Austin said nonprofits fill a vital role in the community, and she encouraged people to support these organizations, not only financially but through volunteering.

“The local nonprofits are committed to the good of our community,” she said.

She described the United Way’s campaign process as a “team effort.”

“It’s about coming together for the common good,” she said. “It’s been so fun and inspiring and exciting to have conversations with all the individuals in our community who care so much about helping others.”

She said the United Way board will decide next week on the allocations to the agencies. The agencies will be notified by letter of the money they will receive.

United Way of Freeborn County partner agencies:

• Adult Basic Education

• Albert Lea Family Y

• The Arc of Freeborn County

• Catholic Charities

• Cedar Valley Services

• The Children’s Center

• Crime Victims Crisis Center

• Crisis Response Team

• Healthy Families

• Parenting Resource Center

• Semcac Community Action

• Senior Resources of Freeborn County

• Salvation Army of Albert Lea