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United Way 2020 campaign surpasses goal

The United Way of Monongalia and Preston Counties surpassed its goal and raised $1,348,479 in the 2020 Campaign, the organization announced at its Campaign Wrap-Up Friday afternoon at the WVU Erickson Alumni Center.

During the wrap-up, which was sponsored by First United Bank & Trust, the United Way reported it was at 100.2%. This year’s campaign goal was $1,345,000.

Bankers United, this year’s campaign chairs, made the announcement by unveiling the total on a large piggy bank to go with the theme of this year’s campaign — Invest In Your Community. The bankers are Dena Clutter of BB&T, Herman DeProspero of MVB Bank, Harry Hayes of Clear Mountain Bank, Jim Karinshak of United Bank, Chris Morris of First United Bank & Trust, Jill Pazerski of Huntington Bank and George Petroplus of WesBanco.

“We are so incredibly excited to announce we’ve reached our 2020 Campaign goal and can continue to help make this community a better place for everyone,” said Macall Speaker, director of development for the United Way of Monongalia and Preston Counties.

“We’re looking forward to all the exciting projects and programs that will be coming this year, and we certainly couldn’t have met this goal without the support of so many in our community. To the businesses, corporations, Leadership Givers, employee coordinators and donors, thank you so much for your constant support and faith in the United Way’s mission here in this community. You are changing lives.”

The Friday event served as the official end of the fall United Way fundraising campaign. A campaign celebration and awards dinner will be held in late February to honor corporate donors, businesses and employee coordinators for their contributions to the 2020 Campaign.

“We asked you to invest in your community, and you responded with a tremendous outpouring of support,” said Brandi Helms, chief executive officer of the local United Way. “Meeting this goal is not an easy task. It means everyone pulling together to do their part. That’s what it takes, and you made it happen. Thank you to all of the donors and advocates who made this campaign a priority so that we can continue to help our neighbors get back on their feet.”

The money raised during the annual United Way campaign stays in Monongalia and Preston counties, providing support to 46 programs at 24 agencies. For more information, visit unitedwaympc.org.