The university United Way campaign has increased its goal by $22,000 making it $192,000 for 1999-2000. The president’s office hosted the annual event in the Alumni Center Aug. 18.

According to Ramon A. Avila, marketing professor and faculty co-chair of the United Way campaign, this goal is possible if Ball State’s 3,000-plus employees pledge $5.33 per month.

"Last year we gave so much above and beyond and exceeded our goal of $170,000 by collecting over $190,000," said Susan Hargis, program coordinator for the School of Continuing Education and campus United Way secretary.

United Way gifts help fund more than 25 different area agencies providing a variety of educational, recreational and health needs to Delaware County residents. Some of these agencies include Motivate Our Minds, Day Star Respite and Activity Center, Meals on Wheels and Cancer Services of Delaware County.

Because the pledge drive is once a year, Hargis stresses the importance of having the involvement of the entire university family.

"We would like 100 percent participation that would involve everyone turning in their [pledge] cards, and of course we want people to give too." said Hargis.

Avila holds similar views regarding donations.

"One thing I have learned about gift giving is a $2 a month gift is just as important as a $100 per month gift," he said, "I hope each work unit’s goal will be to get every employee to contribute in some way."

Group chairs for the 1999-2000 campaign are Jim Danglade, United Way committee chair; Sandra Kelly, Pathfinders chair; Ramon A. Avila, faculty co-chair; Les Richardson, service/union chair; and Ross Van Ness, retiree chair. There are 108 team captains representing the campus departments who will distribute and collect the pledge cards.

A weekly drawing will take place for campaign participants. There will be six prizes each week starting Sept. 10 on every Friday until Oct. 15. All university employees are encouraged to give a tax deductible contribution that may be designated to the agency of choice.

"Some people have had agencies that have touched their heart that they prefer to give to," said Hargis. "If you’d like to designate a gift, write the name and address on the pledge card."