The Kalona United Fund drive is for November 1-5 in the Kalona area, and may possibly be the last one.

“We have had problems finding people to serve on the executive committee,” explained United Fund President Kathy Jepson, stating this is the group that plans the annual solicitation. Additionally, there have been problems finding solicitors and that, coupled with diminished giving, “has made us consider that this may be the United Fund’s last year.” (See letter in Letter to the Editor)

Agencies that made applications to the Fund for this year are: Kalona Elementary School PTA, Kalona First Responders, Kalona Food Pantry, Kalona Public Library, Pleasantview Home, Washington County Developmental Center, Washington County Hospice, Washington County Humane Society, Washington County Mini-Bus, Kalona Girl Scouts, Washington County Red Cross and Mid-Prairie Junior Boosters (Middle School).

Although the United Fund has changed its approach, the goal for the funds for 2000 is only $11,000.

Jepson said that the board decided “it would do one more drive,” then, depending on the results, makes its decision if the Kalona United Fund will continue.

Rural

This year, for the first time, the drive will undertake rural solicitation by providing a donation form via the Kalona News.

“Because it will go to all subscribers, people have the option of simply mailing in the form with a donation,” said Jepson. Locally, there also will be solicitors.

Donations may be mailed to either bank or to the Kalona United Fund, P. O. Box 222, Kalona, Iowa 52247.

There also will be collection canisters placed in the Freedom Security Bank and Hills Bank Kalona.