Mesa United Way Short in Pledges that Fund Programs

The Arizona Republic, May 12, 2010, by Angelique Soenarie

Click here to read the article in the Arizona Republic. 

It could be the pile of coins in your change bowl, or putting aside $10 to help make a difference.

Mesa United Way, one of the city's largest non-profit agencies is short for its annual pledge campaign. Pledges fell $700,000 short of the $4 million campaign goal, which ends the first week of June.

The non-profit organization, which raised $3.3 million, will be allocating funding to agencies at the end of June. But some non-profit agencies will not receive financial assistance, if Mesa United Way doesn't meet its goal.

At stake are nearly 28 local agencies that operate 32 separate programs that could be cut as a result of the campaign's shortfall, said Carol McCormack, president and chief professional officer of Mesa United Way.

"We had hoped not to have to cut this year," McCormack said. "But we were surprised how many corporations that have helped us generously in the past have suffered large losses and laid-off large numbers of employees. Many of those people are now turning to us for assistance until they can find work again."

Already, McCormack said the demand in services grew 20 to 60 percent in some programs since the recession began two years ago. And many agencies are struggling to cope with cuts in funding from other sources as well, she said.

"We're just asking those who can give to help out," McCormack said.  

How to help:
Click here to donate online or drop off or mail your check to Mesa United Way, 137 E. University Drive, Mesa, AZ 85201; or call 480-969-8601.