Not everyone who benefits from the partnership agencies of the United Way of Central Missouri expects to need them. At least Corey Backues didn't - until his daughter was born with Down syndrome.
He and his wife were living in Kansas City at the time but knew of the Special Learning Center in Jefferson City. They decided to move back to the area so their daughter could receive services at the center.
"Not only is the Special Learning Center a great agency, but there are 28 agencies that are fantastic," Backues said. "As I looked at the list and went down, I counted six agencies that I've used myself or my family has. Six agencies. I never expected that. I guess that says my family is pretty needy for one, and No. 2, we're just very blessed to be part of Central Missouri with the great support here."
Backues works for GFI Digital, one of United Way's pacesetter companies. He helped open the United Way's community campaign kick-off luncheon, where it was announced the 31 companies raised $882,553 - $12,316 more than the previous year. The companies contributed 48.3 percent of the total $1.825 million goal. Central Bank raised the most at $195,000.
Several of the companies hosted '80s-themed fundraising events to keep pace with the "Rockin' the '80s" theme, and several exceeded their fundraising efforts from last year.
And the themed events are set to continue for the upcoming months of the campaign.
Mid-Missouri's Got Talent will feature the six best acts submitted at 7 p.m. Sept. 13 at The Millbottom. Several local restaurants have also partnered with United Way and will donate proceeds from meals purchased. Area salons are also planning a United Glam event in October, and Coca-Cola Company pledged to donate 25 cents for every case of Coca-Cola purchased locally.
"It is humbling to look out at this incredible group and know we have your support, and you will help us do what it takes to meet and exceed our $1.825 million goal," said President Ann Bax.
A victory celebration on Nov. 3 will announce the predicted fundraising results.
More information about the campaign events can be found at unitedwaycemo.org.