Officially, the United Way of the River Cities’ 2008 fundraising campaign has ended, but the challenge of helping the organization make a positive impact has only just begun.

As the nation’s economy ground deeper and deeper into a recession, it is understandable that the charitable organization’s fundraising efforts were hampered.

But it isn’t too late to make a difference. It isn’t too late to lend a hand to an organization that leverages its dollars to go a long way and serves a variety of needs right here in Lawrence County.

Locally, the United Way has given its support to the Boy and Girl Scouts of America, the Red Cross, the Ironton City Welfare Mission, the Chesapeake Community Center, Goodwill Industries, Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Tri-State and many more.

But the organization cannot do anything without community support.

As of late last week, the United Way was short nearly $300,000 of its $1.5 million goal, down approximately 7 percent compared to the same time period in 2007.

Members of the community can still help the United Way reach its goal by making a pledge or contribution.

For more information, call (304) 523-8929.

By pooling resources and seeking community services and donations, the organization can make each and every dollar go much farther than it would otherwise.

The United Way helps those in need, but when it is that organization itself on that list, it is up to each of us to lend a hand.