The Area Wide United Way, three weeks into its annual fund-raising campaign, has raised 15 percent of its $625,000 goal.

So far, $95,442 has been raised. Over $70,000 of that came from corporations and employee groups including NationsBank, Lee Rowan, Mercantile Bank, Famous Barr, Eddie Bauer and Union Planters Bank.

Over 100 contributions have been received from small businesses, professionals and individuals.

"We are well ahead of last year, with many employee campaigns still under way or about to be kicked off," said Edythe Davis, 1998 campaign chairman.

Employee groups are taking different approaches to their campaigns this year. Southeast Missouri Hospital campaign coordinator Debbie Bowers organized agency tours for a group of hospital employees to familiarize them with the work agencies do.

Twenty five agencies will be funded with money raised during the 1998 campaign. Several agencies provide services for children.

Boy Scouts of America provides youth development programs for boys, young men and young women. The organization teaches skills, including camping.

Cape Girardeau Civic Center fosters a sense of community and promotes development of Cape Girardeau youth through recreational and after-school tutoring programs.

Cape County 4-H Council provides educational and enrichment programs for youth.

Cape Public School Children's Fund provides medical and health-related services for children in need in the public school system.

Court Appointed Special Advocates represents children's interests in the judicial circuit. Volunteers are trained to represent children in court proceedings and to conduct investigations on behalf of abused and neglected children.

Easter Seal Society provides services for children with disabilities and families, including special education, speech pathology and occupational therapy.

Girl Scouts encourages girls to develop skills through programming in areas of math and sciences, environmental studies, music, camping and outdoor fun.

Jackson R-2 Children's Fund provides shoes, clothing, food and medical care for children in need.