The best victory is one where everyone wins.
That type of victory was celebrated last week by community volunteers involved with the United Way of Central Missouri.
The Victory Celebration was highlighted by the announcement that the annual fundraising campaign had surpassed its goal.
The projected total of $1,734,478 exceeded the $1.65 million target set earlier this year, based on the work of allocation committees that scrutinize the budgets of United Way partner agencies.
The success of the campaign will support the health and human services provided by 25 partner agencies and programs serving Cole, Miller, Moniteau, Osage and southern Callaway counties.
"I am so proud to be part of this great community," said Lori Massman, co-chair of the campaign. "Our supporters chose to be part of the solution for our children, our seniors and everyone in between."
Adding to the words of appreciation was Ann Bax, president of the area United Way. "It is humbling and a true blessing to have the overwhelming support of this great community," she said.
The theme for this year's campaign was "Be a Hero!"
The theme certainly was appropriate because the ambitious goal required a heroic effort by volunteers and received a heroic response by contributors.
The result is everyone wins.
Needs will continue to be met; agencies will continue to provide services; volunteers will continue to serve agencies; and contributions will continue to be channeled through the United Way.
Count this campaign as a victory for our community.