For me, one of the most heart-warming signs of the holidays is actually located in front of Memorial City Hall. It does not feature holly or candy-canes. It is the United Way campaign thermometer.

Every year the United Way of Cayuga County challenges the people and businesses of our community to contribute to this wonderful organization so that it may continue its work on behalf of those in need. And every year we can track the progress of the campaign on the thermometer at city hall.

This year's ambitious goal is $1,380,000.

“We have a good history of success,” said 2008 Campaign Chairman James Courtney. “The people of Auburn and Cayuga County have a way of rallying around this tremendous cause.”

But according to Courtney, this year has been a challenge. The downturn in the economy has made it more difficult for people to open their checkbooks and give because they are uncertain about their own future.

When people are hesitant, Courtney lets the United Way's track-record do the talking.

“We have a great story to tell, and when we get in front of people and tell people how the United Way helps, we have had a great deal of positive responses,” Courtney said. “We tell people that the money that is donated to the United Way stays in Cayuga County. That makes a big difference because donors understand that their money improves the quality of life here in our community.”

Yet, despite the challenges, the “thermometer” keeps rising.

“It is going pretty well,” Courtney said. “But it has been an uphill battle this year.”

As a United Way organization, Options for Independence is doing all it can to support this year's campaign. Like so many other local businesses, our staff has stepped up our efforts and has turned in 100 percent participation rate.

The United Way does great work on behalf of people with disabilities.

Here at Options, support from the United Way has funded “Kids on the Block” performances. This interactive program brings puppet shows to area schools to teach children about people with disabilities. United Way funding also supports our self-sufficiency program, which helps people with disabilities who are at risk of becoming homeless. As the economy continues to be in turmoil, the need for services like this will certainly increase.

The United Way's Web site encourages people to make their donation by Dec. 10. However, don't let that discourage you from giving. It will accept contributions to the 2008 campaign until the end of the year.

If you would like to contribute to the success of the United Way's 2008 Campaign, donations can be sent to: United Way of Cayuga County, 17 E. Genesee St., Suite 2, Auburn, NY 13021-4045. More information on the campaign is available at

unitedwayofcayugacounty.org.

Supporting the United Way is a great way to make the holidays brighter for those in need.

Collin M. Sullivan is the ADA/access advocate for Options for Independence