The Area Wide United Way is at 30 percent of its goal of $935,000 for its 2003 fund-raising campaign. Communities in Southeast Missouri have been raising funds since the Aug. 28 kickoff event with dozens of businesses and hundreds of individuals involved.

"We are extremely excited about this year's campaign," said Don Fisher, director of business development at Southeast Missouri Hospital and chairman of the campaign.

Some outstanding campaigns have been reported at General Sign with an increase of 217 percent, and Hutson's Furniture, with a 47 percent increase. A first-year employee campaign at Drury Southwest raised $2,514. Other businesses helping out include Sam's Club, which has raised $2,284; Sears, which increased its employee contributions to $2,444; and Wal-Mart, which has raised $8,372.

"Our community is extremely generous. All we have to do is ask," said Nancy Jernigan, executive director of the Area Wide United Way.

Contributions to the United Way campaign can be made by contacting the office by phone at 334-9634, by mailing in a pledge card at 1858 Broadway, Cape Girardeau, Mo., 63701, or visiting the Web site at www.areawideunitedway.org.