Pictured, from left, are Lisa and Andy Goodell, the 2025 Campaign Co-Chairs for United Way of Chautauqua County’s 2025 Fundraising Campaign.

The United Way of Chautauqua County has passed the halfway mark in its 2025 fundraising campaign, reaching 51% of this year’s $1.7 million goal.

Donations made to United Way go to fund programs serving local children, families and seniors in Chautauqua County. Each year’s fundraising campaign is held to continue providing that necessary funding to the local community agencies facilitating those programs. All donations made to UWCHQ stay local here in Chautauqua County.

“Every day, someone in Chautauqua County is helped because a neighbor chose to give,” said Amy Rohler, executive director of United Way of Chautauqua County. “Whether it’s a child gaining confidence through academic tutoring, a family accessing healthy food, or a senior getting the support they need to live independently, these moments of impact are made possible by generous donors.”

Last year alone, United Way programs impacted the lives of local individuals 52,213 times.

“We’re grateful to everyone who has already donated or made a pledge — and we’re hopeful others will join us as we push toward the finish line,” Rohler said.

To reach $1.7 million, United Way relies on the generosity of employees giving through their paycheck as well as corporate gifts, donations from individuals, planned legacy giving, and the support of small businesses.

Instrumental in helping UWCHQ reach those various networks this year have been the 2025 Campaign Co-Chairs, Lisa and Andy Goodell.

“It’s an efficient and convenient way to make a charitable gift,” said Lisa Goodell. “What makes United Way so powerful is the way one gift helps facilitate impact across dozens of programs. When people give, they’re not just supporting a single cause – they’re strengthening an entire network of services that help neighbors at every stage of life.”

At present, United Way funds 46 programs at 38 local agencies as well as its own initiatives — such as the 211 helpline, Girls In Sports, Day of Caring, Literacy Week, Community Baby Shower and Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program.

Touching on this year’s theme of “United We Do More,” Andy Goodell commented, “The power of this campaign is in collective giving. No one gift does it alone — but together, the many gifts made by our family, friends and neighbors helps build real momentum and fuel real change across Chautauqua County.”

With UWCHQ now entering the second half of its campaign, staff and the Co-Chairs ask community members — especially those who have not yet made a pledge — to consider giving.

Contributions to United Way’s 2025 Fundraising Campaign can be made by texting “UWCHQ” to 91999 or by mailing a check to either the Dunkirk or Jamestown offices.