Just two months into the 2010 campaign, United Way for Dawson County officials are saying they are concerned about reaching a $100,000 goal.

“The economy is going to play a huge role this year. There are more people in need than we’ve seen in the past and fewer donations,” said board member Jay Sessions. “We’ve also seen the number of businesses that offer payroll deduction for their employees cut out their matching program.”

Additionally, with the unemployment rate continuing to climb, more and more people who have given in the past now find themselves in need of the support provided by non-profit organizations like United Way, Sessions said.

Donations were down by 20 percent in 2009, when United Way was able to assist 13 local agencies with funding.

Sessions said if the trend continues, the number of agencies receiving allocations from United Way for Dawson County would most likely be limited.

The board of directors for United Way is asking churches, civic groups, businesses and the community to pitch in.

“We know these are hard times for everyone, but there is such a need in this community. So many people depend on these donations,” Sessions said.

On the bright side, Sessions said there has been an increase in the number of local businesses participating in the United Way campaign.

“Wal-Mart signed on this year, and we’re expecting a good return from that partnership,” he said.

Individual donations are also accepted.

For more information, call Sessions at (706) 344-3501, Ext. 245.