Chattanooga: United Way campaign at $4 million

The United Way of Greater Chattanooga has raised almost $4 million for its 2008 community campaign, officials said.

The organization is hoping to reach its $11.9 million target amount, which the organization raised in 2007 and which is the highest total of its three-tiered goal.

In stressing the growing need in the community, officials said United Way’s 2-1-1 call center has already taken more calls than were received by this time in 2007.

In an effort to reach its goal, the campaign has engaged 30 businesses that did not participate in last year’s campaign and has pledges from nearly 900 first-time contributors.

Among the highlights, Chattanooga Printing and Engraving increased its pledges 71 percent over 2007, the Salvation Army upped its contributions 39 percent and Southern Adventist University employees increased their donations 18 percent.

An employee giving campaign still may be organized, and individuals still can contribute to this year’s drive. For information, call 752-0300 or visit www.LiveUnitedChattanooga.org.