The United Way of Marquette County has announced this year’s campaign co-chairs as the annual area nonprofit fundraising drive swings into high gear.

While the campaign officially kicked off Aug. 24, campaign materials are being packed up, distributed and mailed right now.

This year’s goal is ambitious – raising $425,000

The United Way campaign tasks a team of local volunteers to help distribute and sign letters and encourage their neighbors and co-workers to give. Volunteers embrace the annual campaign because they realize – as we do – that services delivered by the 28 United Way member agencies improve the lives of Marquette County residents every day.

Proceeds from the drive go to support a broad spectrum of service organizations, from the Alzheimer’s association to the YMCA of Marquette County. From youth organizations like the Girl Scouts and Big Brothers-Big Sisters to relief groups like the American Red Cross and Salvation Army, the United Way helps meet pressing needs close to home.

The campaign is a tremendous way to support many worthy area service groups with a single simple donation. But the effort can’t succeed without the help of many volunteers – and without generous support from the community.

The co-chairs for this year’s drive are Mark Canale, owner of Canale Funeral Homes in Marquette and Gwinn; Christine Pesola, owner of the Landmark Inn; and Dr. Jim Surrell, a doctor with Marquette General Health System. The trio will visit workplaces and organizations around Marquette County to talk about the United Way and encourage support.

Campaign coordinator Sue Minckler and the co-chairs will make 15-minute presentations at area workplaces and organizations. We hope you will be listening.

For more information on United Way of Marquette County or its annual campaign, call 226-8171 or visit the group’s office at Lakeview Arena in Marquette.