The Effingham office of the United Way of the Coastal Empire has set a fundraising goal of $325,000 — $8,000 more than last year.
The charity had already collected 31 percent of its goal when it officially kicked off the annual fundraising campaign during a luncheon on Friday at the College and Career Academy.
About 200 people attended the luncheon, sponsored by Georgia-Pacific Savannah River Mill, Georgia Power and Effingham Health System.
This year's campaign centers on the theme "It's a Wonderful Life," asking what life would be like without United Way. Volunteers dressed in 1920s attire.
Honored for their work during early, pacesetter campaigns were the Effingham County Board of Education and Georgia Power.
School district employees pledged $77,311 and won the Chairman's Award for the biggest increase from last year. Blandford Elementary collected $4,518 this year and $3,671 last year.
For the second year in a row, Ebenezer Elementary School won a Caring Cup for having the highest percentage of participation. Of the 99 employees at the school, 69, or 70 percent, gave to the campaign.
Georgia Power's employees in Effingham pledged $18,622.
The campaign continues through Nov. 13.
To donate, or for more information, call 912-826-5300 or visit www.uwce.org.