After a three-year study of the community to identify funding priorities, Bogle said United Way identified five key areas to focus its resources: youth education, adult education and training, health, safety and spreading information about social services, both to those who could benefit and those who could provide investments.

The main goal is to move people in the community from a crisis state to a place where they can thrive.

“Our desire is that everyone has the ability for themselves and their families to live without subsidized assistance,” she said.

The United Way operates a 211 telephone information and referral service for Macon, DeWitt and Moultrie counties, also funded by Buffett. The service is toll-free telephone number that gives people access 24 hours a day to a trained volunteer who refers callers to resources, drawing on a database of thousands of health and human services.

Common issues include problems with paying rent or utility bills, substance abuse, family counseling and child care.

Bogle encourages businesses of all sizes to join in the fundraising campaign. She said even one or two dollars per paycheck can greatly impact the community through programs.

“People are always surprised to learn how little it takes to make an impact on someone’s life,” said Brian Byers, president of the organization's board of directors and vice-president of development at Neuhoff Media.