Halloween Report Luncheon

POUGHKEEPSIE, NY – United Way of Dutchess County reported Friday that it has received $812,661 in donations to date, 47 percent, of its $1.7 million 2009 Campaign goal. The announcement was made during a Halloween-themed luncheon at the Poughkeepsie Grand Hotel.

Funds raised during the campaign help Dutchess County residents receive services from more than 30 United Way-funded programs. 

“We were concerned that in light of the economy we might not have the kind of success we were hoping for, but I’m pleased to announce we are just about half way there,” said Tyrone Muse, 2009 Campaign Chair and Hudson Valley Federal Credit Union Chief Financial Officer. “This news just shows me how much compassion this community has for one another and that we will reach our 2009 goal.”

Volunteers helping to raise the funds include members of the United Way campaign leadership team, more than 250 employee campaign managers who encourage pledges and donations in Dutchess County workplaces, 18 loaned executives from companies and nonprofits who work for 12 weeks to promote campaign giving, and the Young Leaders United group. 

Mary Marshall, Director of Hudson Valley Services for Catholic Charities Community Services, and Chair of the Hudson Valley CA$H Coalition, a United Way-funded partnership, also spoke at the luncheon. She explained that the CA$H Coalition helps low- to moderate-income workers access free income tax preparation services. Last year, 664 residents received $1.3 million in returns and Earned Income Tax Credits which they spent in the community, making a $1.975 million dollar impact on the Dutchess County economy.