NORWICH – After a successful year, the Chenango United Way held a reception recently to recognize the individuals who helped make the campaign a success.

CUW Executive Director Elizabeth Monaco began the night’s program by thanking those in attendance for their support of the 2009 campaign. This year, the CUW managed to exceed its campaign goal of $465,000 by raising $475,772 in Chenango County alone. An additional $35,872 was allocated to the Chenango United Way by donors outside of the area, for a combined campaign total of $511,644.

“On behalf of the board of directors, I want to thank each of you for giving, volunteering and advocating for the United Way,” Monaco told those in attendance.

Monaco detailed highlights of the past year, which included funding 18 programs in Chenango County, with money from the 2008 campaign. In addition, the CUW created a partnership with the Community Foundation of South Central New York, the Upstate Institute at Colgate University, NBT Bank and the Norwich High School to create the Norwich High School Youth Philanthropy Council. Through the partnership, junior and senior students had the opportunity to learn about non-profit organizations and award $10,000 in funding to local organizations.