The goal amount for 2009 was set at $320,000.  Exceeding expectations, United Way of Loudon County has raised $337,000 and hopes to raise more. 

The goal amount was less than the goal for the previous year -$350,000.

In September 2009, the United Way push to raise $320,000 for charitable agencies in the community got started with a breakfast meeting at First Baptist Church of Lenoir City. 

At the kickoff meeting, United Way of Loudon County Chairman Harvey Sproul said, "We are also realistic in trying to set our goal for this year." 

He said many people are out of work or making less this year because of payroll deductions and company cutbacks. Those factors and other economic conditions led to the board's decision to set a lower and more attainable goal for the new campaign. 

Fenton said the community's awareness of the economic downturn and the fact that money raised in Loudon County is used to help the citizens of Loudon County accounts for the uptick in donations. 

"People understand the situation and that makes a difference," she said. "They have family and friends in the community who have been impacted by the economy. United Way helps people they know." 

Just because the organization has met the lowered goal, Fenton said the needs in the county are only going to grow and more donations will be needed. 

"We'll continue to take any donations because we think it's going to be a difficult year and the need is going to be greater," Fenton said adding that meeting the 2008 goal of $350,000 would be welcomed. "We'd like to match that or better it if we can," 

Fenton said with the economy in such rough shape more funds will surely be needed. "We've had some emergency requests and it would make it easier to respond to them." 

She couldn't say enough about the generosity of county residents. "They've done an excellent job," she said adding she wants to send, "a great big thank you to the community." Fenton singled out Tellico Village for their support. "They've done a great job. This has been their best year to date." 

Donations to the organization can be made at www.unitedwayloudoncounty.org or by calling 986-4820.