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United Way exceeds 2011 fundraising goal

By Robert Marin

KWCH 12 Eyewitness News

3:43 PM CST, November 17, 2011

(WICHITA, Kan.)

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For the past several years the bad economy forced them to reduce their goals, but the United Way of the Plains says this year it saw a surprising turnaround.

The organization says it beat this year's fundraising goal by $100,000, taking in a total of $15.2 million. It comes after a downward trend that has meant fewer dollars for area non-profits.

"i'm just so excited, so happy for what the community has stepped up and done for everybody in need," says Linda Brantner, chairperson for the 2011 United Way campaign.

Brantner says she was surprised and pleased with how many people stepped up and gave, despite the continued economic struggles.

"I think we worked so hard on the message, making sure that people understood that, I know we're all tired of this economy, but there's still people out there suffering and people need us more than ever," said Brantner.

The annual campaign includes donation drives in area workplaces. The money raised goes to dozens of area non-profit agencies.

To learn more about the United Way click here or on the related link to visit their website.