Steamboat Pilot & Today

As new needs arise, Routt County United Way is there to fund those who seek solutions. In past years, local nonprofit organizations have noticed a steady increase in the number of immigrants needing services in Routt County. In January, Comunidad Integrada formed as a referral agency and direct-service provider for the growing Spanish-speaking population.

Routt County United Way provided startup funds, said Millie Beall, Routt County United Way's executive director. "The immigrant population has become a focus of our community's concentration, and (Comunidad Integrada) is meeting that need."

Routt County United Way also continues to see an increase in need for child care scholarships for families living below the poverty level.

The money United Way gives to local organizations is raised during its annual capital campaign, which is going on now. The fundraising began Sept. 15 with a ceremony on the Routt County Courthouse lawn.

Although a lot of Routt County residents gave money to Hurricane Katrina victims this year, that crisis "did not dampen their spirit of giving," Beall said.

The United Way is not struggling to meet its goal. For the past two years, Beall has been surprised by the amount of direct contributions received from out-of-county banks, indicating donations made by part-time residents.

The United Way set its goal for this year at $500,000, up from $450,000 last year. As of Tuesday, it had reached 79.29 percent of the goal. The United Way will continue fundraising until the goal is reached.

"Last year, we could call it by Christmas," Beall said. "I'm positive about our progress this year."

This year's campaign slogan is "Awaken Your Giving Spirit," represented by Sleeping Giant.

The United Way funds 40 agencies and programs in Routt County.

"It's all about Routt County residents taking care of Routt County residents," Beall said. "Realistically, we are only able to fund 10 percent of any agency's total expenses, but that money is used to leverage dollars from state and federal funders outside of Routt County."

-- To reach Autumn Phillips, call 871-4210 or e-mail aphillips@steamboatpilot.com