United Way Week of Caring Underway/ Fall Fund Drive to Kick Off

Appearing on the September 14 edition of the local weekly public affairs program, Southern Tier Close Up, United Way of Broome County Executive Director, Alan Hertel outlines the history of the Week of Caring that had been started as a one-day initiative to promote involvement of groups and individuals in the community as well as discusses the upcoming fall fund drive.

Hertel says following the September 11, 2001 terror attacks on the U.S., many local residents were anxious to find opportunities to help their neighbors and their community. The Day of Caring subsequently took off and a short time later, the Day of Caring grew into an entire week.

Hertel reminds listeners, however, that opportunities to volunteer are available year-round.  He says there is an online site that helps match volunteers with agencies that need help in a multiple county region. The regional volunteer opportunity site is available at www.southerntiervolunteers.org.

The United Way is also launching its fall fund drive with the help of groups, business and individuals in Broome County. The effort raises income to support the services of over 30 member agencies dealing with a wide range of needs in the community.

For information on setting up an employee contribution program or how groups and individuals can get involved, go to www.unitedwaybroome.org. Information can also be obtained by calling the United Way office at (607) 240-2000.

Southern Tier Close Up airs Saturdays at 12:10 p.m. on News Radio 1290 WNBF.