Ever since a Denver priest, two ministers and a rabbi recognized a need to address their city’s welfare problems in 1887, the United Way has helped make communities across the country a better place.

The organization is still going strong and that includes the Mower County chapter.

On Tuesday night, United Way officials announced they raised $900,000 during their 2008 campaign, with 24 non-profit agencies benefiting and 59 programs funded.

They’ve helped children attend pre-school classes, helped inspire residents to get fit and stay fit and with the help of First United Methodist Church, helped keep more than 225 children dry and warm this past winter through an outerwear drive.

The United Way is making a difference here, in the midst of one of the worst recessions in the nation’s history, and we commend them for their efforts.