Employees at Lyon County State Bank’s downtown branch, 902 Merchant St., know why giving makes them feel good.
“The people who need it the most are going to use it,” said Deanna Troutner.
She and co-workers explained why they choose to pledge during the annual United Way fund-raising drive. As of Friday morning, the campaign had raised $558,632 — just $41,368 short of its $600,000 goal with just two weeks left, according to Duane Dreiling, director of United Way of the Flint Hills.
“We’ve made up some ground here,” Dreiling said.
Ann McCauley, another LCSB employee, knows firsthand how that money can be used. That’s why she donates.
“I want to give back because of the services provided to me at a time when I needed it,” McCauley said.
Myrna Peraza remembers working with United Way while in high school.
“I like the organizations they go through,” Peraza said. “It’s nice to be able to give back to them.”
Russ Bonitatibus gives to help other people.
“I think you’re helping people within the community that are less fortunate that you are,” Bonitatibus said. “It gives you satisfaction. That’s what God wants you to do. We’re all brothers and sisters in his eyes.”
Bonitatibus said he also has benefited from organizations that are involved with the United Way. He’s a volunteer fireman and has seen the Salvation Army truck at two scenes to offer food and drink for personnel fighting the fire.
Jennifer Jones gives because she wants to give back.
“I give just to give back to the community,” Jones said. “To help people that don’t have as much as I do.”
Anette Dean agrees.
“I have the funds to do it with,” Annette Dean said. “I like to help out other people and it’s for a good cause. I’m fortunate I can do it. I can do it now, so why not help out?”