The United Ways of Chautauqua County held their fundraising campaign celebration Tuesday at Wicked Warren’s in Jamestown. Pictured are Amy Rohler, United Ways of Chautauqua County executive director, left, and campaign co-chairs Kelly Borrello, center, and Bill Soffel, at right, revealing that United Way hit its $1.8 million goal for the 2024 Fundraising Campaign.

In its first-ever joint fundraising campaign, the United Ways of Chautauqua County raised a record $1,801,385.57 – a 12% increase from the 2023 campaign and the most raised collectively since 2002.

Staff, volunteers, community members and business owners who gathered Tuesday at the United Way’s Campaign Celebration heard first-hand how the last several months saw increased community engagement, charitable giving and a heightened awareness of the organization’s commitment to improving lives.

“This campaign was a testament to the strength of coming together — both as one united organization and one united county,” said Amy Rohler, United Ways of Chautauqua County executive director. “The merger amplified our ability to connect with residents, and in turn that resulted in successes and milestones that exceeded our expectations — all of which show that we are truly ‘Stronger Together.'”

Each year, as part of the annual fundraising campaign, United Way staff give presentations in workplaces throughout the county – detailing how donor dollars go to support 48 local programs facilitated by 34 partner agencies in the community.

With nearly twice as many workplace presentations as last year, United Way staff reached 4,916 workers – which contributed to the 63% increase in individual donorship realized in this year’s campaign.

“To be a part of those presentations was really impactful,” said Bill Soffel, 2024 campaign co-chair. “For many, the name United Way was a familiar one – but it wasn’t until they heard about the work being done and learned the details of how so many local residents are impacted that they really began to understand the benefit of collective giving.”

In total, United Way staff gave 152 presentations in the last few months at workplaces throughout Chautauqua County.

“This year’s campaign had a noticeable buzz,” said Kelly Borrello, campaign co-chair. “There was a heightened visibility and people took notice. I can’t count the number of times I heard from folks that they saw the yard signs and heard about the event, and how that reminded everyone of the vital work being done in our community.”

“That visibility not only brought in new donors but also rekindled support from past givers. Many retirees shared that they hadn’t realized how easy it is to give after having left their workplace. This campaign helped reconnect them to a cause they care deeply about. It was amazing to see how much awareness and enthusiasm grew across the county.”

United Way relies on its annual giving campaign to ensure that local agencies have the resources needed to create meaningful change for community residents – and in this year’s campaign, the community stepped up.

“It was our most successful year yet,” Rohler said. “Our board and staff are proud to be a part of this generous community.”

Gifts made by local donors each year is how United Way is able to sustain programs and services facilitated by local agencies. In 2024, United Way programs were used by local residents 32,991 times.

“We are working to strengthen this community,” Rohler said. “As a result of our successful campaign, we will be able to increase capacity, innovation and impact across Chautauqua County – and make this a place where everyone can live, work and thrive.”