BY B.G. GREGG
The Cincinnati Enquirer
Cincinnati's United Way & Community Chest is about $20 million short of its record $53.8 million goal with slightly more than two weeks remaining in this year's campaign.
Campaign Chairman Daniel J. Meyer -- chairman, president and chief executive officer of CincinnatiMilacron Inc. -- announced Tuesday that the campaign had reached $33,084,927, or 61.5 percent of its goal.
On Oct. 14 of last year, the campaign had reached $32 million, or 62 percent of the $51.5 million goal. Last year's campaign ended Oct. 30. This year's wraps up Oct. 29.
"We are moving a bit more slowly than we should be at this point," Mr. Meyer said. "Corporate gifts and completed campaigns continue to be very positive, but the pace is slower than it should be. For the last two years we have averaged being at 64 percent of goal by now.
"Many companies have campaigns under way but have not yet turned in reports. It's essential that campaigns be wrapped up as quickly as possible."
Tonight, United Way volunteers will call past givers who normally contribute through the mail but haven't replied this year.
Those who would like to contribute or run a campaign at their company should call 762-7100.
The campaign ends with a finale at Music Hall at 4:30 p.m. Oct. 29. Reservations: call 762-7178.
