Pictured from left are Lauren Beichner, manager at Falconer branch; Amy Rohler United Way of Southern Chautauqua County executive director; Kathy Bemus, manager at Jamestown North Main Street branch; Russell Webb, manager at Lakewood branch; and Sally Opferbeck United Way finance director. Submitted photo

The United Way of Southern Chautauqua County has raised 17% of its $1.33 million goal since its initial kickoff hosted by Southern Chautauqua Federal Credit Union in early September.

The money has been raised through presentations at organizations categorized as “Gamechangers,” bagging groceries during the annual Scan Campaign at Wegmans and other events.

“Our theme this year is ‘Change Doesn’t Happen Alone,'” said Amy Rohler, United Way of Southern Chautauqua County executive director, “and that couldn’t be more true in our community.”

United Way works with more than 230 local businesses, 3,925 donors and more than 200 volunteers to raise more than $1.3 million every year. In 2020, the agency will celebrate its 100th anniversary.

Recently, Kathy Bemus and fellow Community Bank managers presented a $4,000 check to the United Way of Southern Chautauqua County.

“Community Bank is very honored to present this check to United Way of Southern Chautauqua County, our community people truly need it,” Bemus said.

The donation was an increase of $2,000 from last year.

United Way has presented and educated employees at LaBella Associates, the Resource Center, New Flyer, Phoenix Metal, M&T Bank, Wegmans, Tops Markets, UPS and many local schools, including Jamestown Public Schools, Pine Valley Central School, Jamestown Community College, Chautauqua Lake Child Care and Chautauqua Lake Central School.

“The presentation that we do typically lasts a short 10-15 minutes,” said Cynde Johnson, United Way of Southern Chautauqua County marketing and resource development coordinator. “Everyone is unique and we strategically work with businesses on what is the best outcome for their employees; many are surprised to know the work that we do for the community.”

To schedule a presentation, call 483-1561 or email cjohnson@uwayscc.org. To donate online, visit www.uwayscc.org.