BRISTOL, Tenn. – The economy caused some worry, but the United Way of Bristol TN/VA announced Friday it had raised $1.27 million, surpassing its 2009-10 fundraising goal of $1.25 million.
“Our community really stepped up, and we’re so thankful,” said Lisa Cofer, the chapter’s executive director, during a Friday morning ceremony at Bristol Tennessee Essential Services’ headquarters.
“It’s gratifying so many people recognize there’s an even greater need now for our services,” she said.
During the ceremony, attended by numerous Bristol civic, government, school and business figures, chapter officials unfurled a banner boasting the figures “$1,270,967” – the exact amount raised in the campaign, which began in August.
When BTES executive Beth Ringley, chairman of the 2009-10 fundraising campaign, joked that the banner-bearers could lower the sign, one of them – Bristol Motor Speedway president and general manager Jeff Byrd – had a quick reply.
“If it said $600,000, we would have already,” Byrd said. “But this is something to brag about.”
Ringley said the Bristol chapter’s success in exceeding its $1.25 million goal was particularly impressive because of the slow economy, which has made it more challenging for charities to raise money for causes.
“It really speaks well for the generosity of Bristol, from our individual citizens to our business community,” Ringley said.
“Everyone really came through, in a big way.”
While United Way of Bristol reached its 2009-10 campaign goal, some other area chapters are still working toward theirs.
Travis Staton, chief executive officer of the United Way of Russell and Washington Counties in Virginia, said Friday that chapter had raised slightly more than $900,000 of its $1 million campaign goal.
“We’re almost there,” Staton said. He said the chapter had extended its campaign period through January, and was hopeful it could reach the $1 million goal by month’s end.
Officials at the United Way of Washington County, Tenn., announced earlier this week that the chapter was an estimated $340,000 short of its $1.95 million campaign goal.
rbrown@bristolnews.com | (276) 645-2512
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