The United Way of Story County, a group that raises money to help more than 30,000 people in Story County, started its 2005 ISU campaign with a breakfast in the Campanile Room of the Memorial Union on Thursday. The United Way is hoping Iowa State will be a significant donor as it has been in the past.

Last year, the ISU campaign fell $20,000 short of the donation goal, which was $10,000 higher than this year’s goal.

Lynn Scarlett, director of marketing at United Way, said this year the ISU campus goal is $255,000.

Last year Iowa State was the number one donor in Story County.

“Iowa State University is an integral part of our diverse community, and campus participation will continue to strengthen this county’s vitality and vibrant potential as a positive place in which to live and work,” said Olivia Madison, dean of the library and 2005 United Way of Story County Campaign campus chairwoman.

Most of the donations from Iowa State come from individual colleges. The College of Agriculture raised the highest amount last year with almost $50,000. Other considerable donors from the ISU campaign include the College of Engineering and the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, which together raised more than $60,000.

The United Way of Story County distributes these donations to 30 different partner agencies. Some of these agencies include the American Red Cross, YMCA, several child-care centers and Youth and Shelter Services.

Madison said the United Way’s overall goal is to make a happier and healthier in Story County.

For more information on donating or becoming active in the ISU United Way Campaign, you can call (515) 268-5142, or go to its Web site at www.uwstory.org.