LORIMIER SOCIETY GROWING

The Lorimier Society, an organization designed to increase pledges to the Area Wide United Way, is expected to contribute up to half of this year's fund-raising goal.

The fund-raising campaign, which kicked off Sept. 4, is starting to see dollar results. As of Tuesday afternoon, $58,494 had been pledged toward the $470,000 goal, said Harry Rediger, campaign chairman.

"We really don't have a big percentage of the goal in yet," said Rediger.

Much of the United Way campaign has just begun and results won't be evident for a couple of weeks. "But," he said, "I'm really encouraged by the number of increases we are seeing."

Already, over 100 contributors to this year's campaign have given more than last year.

Rediger attributed the increases, at least in part, to the Lorimier Society.

"Last year we had 232 members, both individual and corporate, in the Lorimier Society," Rediger said. "Those members contributed 40 percent of the campaign, and the society continues to grow.

"This year we have found in the employee groups that additional members are joining. It's too early to tell numbers, but I would anticipate that 50 percent of this year's campaign will come from Lorimier Society members."

Started in 1989, the Lorimier Society recognizes individuals and corporations that give specified amounts to the campaign.

Four levels of recognition exist for both individuals and corporations. For individuals, the bronze level is a gift of $250-$499; silver is a gift of $500-$749; gold is a gift of $750-$999; and platinum is a gift of over $1,000. For corporations, the bronze level is a gift of $1,000-$2,499; silver, $2,500-$4,999; gold, $5,000-$9,999; and platinum, over $10,000.

"As more and more information gets out about the Lorimier Society, more people realize they are close to the first level," Rediger said. "They like what they are hearing about the Lorimier Society and are giving enough to join."

He said members of the society are encouraged to increase their contributions in order to reach a higher level.

Rediger said campaign volunteers have begun making contacts with employee groups, corporations, professionals and patrons.

"I feel really good about the campaign so far," Rediger said. "I am really encouraged by the enthusiasm I have seen."

The Area Wide United Way's annual fund drive helps support 25 community agencies. Two new agencies, the Eldercare Center and the Safehouse for Women, were added to the list this year.

Money collected will be allocated to the different agencies at the close of the campaign.

"It's important that we reach our goal," Rediger said. "Even at $470,000, that won't be enough. The needs of these agencies will exceed that amount. I think this community has a lot of potential for giving, which is just barely being tapped."