Ole Miss officially kicks off its campaign Monday (Nov. 2) with a goal of raising at least $130,000 of the United Way's communitywide goal of $425,000. The goal was set by faculty and staff members of the Ole Miss United Way Steering Committee, which is responsible for the campus fundraising effort.

"The closing of the local Whirpool plant is the main reason why we've decided to raise the bar for our own campaign," said Lucile McCook, biology lecturer and campus committee co-chair. "Now more than ever, the LOU community is counting on us to do our share."

Committee members urge the university community to participate in Fair Share, Associate or Leadership giving plans. Fair Share givers contribute one hour's wages each month to the United Way. Associate givers donate $250 to $499. Leadership givers contribute at least $500.

"Last year, Ole Miss was the top contributor to the United Way (communitywide) with donations totaling $124,000, just under the $125,000 we were hoping to raise," said Thelma Curry, University Police Department officer and campus committee co-chair. "I'd like to see that number grow."

Ninety-nine percent of the money raised for United Way stays in Lafayette County to help fund 16 or more local charities, including the Pantry, Interfaith Compassion Ministry, American Red Cross, Family Crisis Services, Meals on Wheels, Boys & Girls Clubs, Leap Frog, Salvation Army, Boy Scouts of America and Girl Scouts of America.

Around the kickoff date, all UM employees should receive pledge cards, allowing them to pay gifts in full or in installments through payroll deduction. Other fundraising efforts scheduled include roadblocks, parking lot sales, intradepartmental competitions and student organization-led events.

The university's drive on behalf of the United Way is slated for completion with a breakfast Dec. 4 from 7 to 9:30 a.m. in the Ole Miss Union. Donations are $5 per person, with all proceeds going to the campaign.

For more information, contact McCook at 662-915-5488 or e-mail This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it .