The United Way of Norman's goal-o-meters went up weeks ago. The signs track the progress of the United Way's fundraising. Right now, they're still below 60 percent. With four months to go, that's lower than the agency would like.
"We are very concerned that many have not donated this year in anticipation of a local economic downturn," said United Way of Norman President Kristin Collins.
"At a time when many United Way of Norman partner agencies report increases in client needs, it is critical that the United Way provide a stable source of funding for services providing food, shelter, health care, mental health care, abuse and neglect response, support for seniors and more."
The money raised by the United Way of Norman helps fund programs across the community, including the Neighborhood Centers run by the Center for Children and Families Inc.
Neighborhood Centers provide activities and positive role models for children during out-of-school time. This important step could affect children for the rest of their lives, by keeping them off the path that leads to school dropouts, crime and unemployment.
Joey is one of the children who feel special at the Neighborhood Centers at Kennedy Elementary. He loved to play games and hang out with the adults who were always excited to see him.
Recently Joey was waiting in line for the Neighborhood Centers to start. As he approached the door, Joey was turned away.
"We're too crowded but please come back next time," said the adult at the door.
The Neighborhood Centers aren't the only program where needs of children are rising. CCFI reports increases in many of their programs. The agency depends on funding from United Way of Norman to operate.
"The United Way allows us to offer our unique services that fit what our community needs," said Linda Terrell, CCFI Executive Director.
As needs rise, it takes more manpower, muscle and money to make sure children like Joey get what they need. That need is growing larger every day and the time to act is now.
One of the easiest ways to play a part in making Norman better is by donating to the United Way. A donation to the United Way of Norman gets spread across the entire community, improving the quality of life of everyone. Call 329-2025 or visit www.unitedwaynorman.com to make a difference today.
Editor's Note: This article provided by the United Way is part of a series about increasing needs in the Norman community and how United Way of Norman is working to meet those needs.
Local news
Needs of children in Norman rising
- Local news
-
-
Theater’s the scene for Norman marketing director
Nancy Coggins landed a job with a prestigious Oklahoma City advertising agency before the ink dried on her OU journalism diploma. The job was a first rung on her career ladder and she admits that it didn’t call for her creative talents. ...
-
New jail to install curtains
The F. DeWayne Beggs Detention Center, though still in its infancy, is getting a facelift: new curtains....
-
Businesses go the extra mile for Valentine’s Day
Among the various images the phrase “Valentine’s Day” might conjure in one’s mind, probably the most immediate is the iconic dozen roses and heart-shaped box of chocolates....
-
New rehabilitation, skilled care center will be next to HealthPlex
StoneGate Senior Living President and CEO John F. Taylor announced Friday that his company has completed the purchase of approximately 6.7 acres of land in the Norman Regional Health System’s Medical Park West project at NW 36th Avenueand ...
-
Mystery performance provides theatrical fatal attraction
James Briggs has a pretty steady day job with the city parks department, doesn’t live anywhere near Little River and probably never owned or slept in a hatchback. He doesn’t usually wear sport coats that are two sizes too small, either ...
-
'Get the Lead Out' annual children's art festival enters 10th year
Longfellow Middle School had a special “GLO” about it Saturday morning....
-
County prisoners moved to new jail
Cleveland County sheriff’s deputies began moving prisoners from the detention center adjacent to the courthouse to the new F. DeWayne Beggs Detention Center at Franklin Road and U.S. 77 early Saturday morning....
-
School board elections Tuesday
Voters go to the polls Tuesday in four Cleveland County school districts. Cleveland County Election Board Secretary Jim Williams said this will be the first election using the new voting system. Polls will open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on ...
-
Identity theft crackdown sweeps nation
WASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service and the Justice Department recently announced a national sweep cracking down on suspected identity theft perpetrators as part of a stepped-up effort against refund fraud and identity theft....
-
Darry Stacy seeking county commission seat
Darry Stacy, a fifth generation Oklahoman and lifelong resident of Cleveland County, announced Friday that he will be a Republican candidate for the District 2 Cleveland County commissioner seat....
- More Local news Headlines
-
Theater’s the scene for Norman marketing director
