For more than 60 years, the United Way of Selma and Dallas County has been helping the community.

Whether providing free healthcare services, diabetes monitoring/informational programs or raising money for 15 partner agencies or charitable organizations, the United Way’s goal is to offer solutions to people in need every day.

Raising nearly $315,000 during its fall fundraising campaign in 2010, United Way director Jeff Cothran said the organization desires to raise even more this year.

“Our goal is to keep serving the community and raising as much money as we can for our partner agencies,” Cothran said. “The economic conditions in this town are just horrible, even for those who are working … it’s been very difficult to raise money, and the needs have been enormous. A wide variety of agencies help to provide hundreds of programs.”

International Paper kicked off its United Way campaign Thursday.

“International Paper kicked off their campaign Sept. 8 with a goal of $100,000,” Cothran said. “Representatives from Cahaba Center for Mental Health and Salvation Army (two of 15 partner agencies) came out to support the kickoff.”

Cothran said interested donors can make monetary donations online at www.selmaunitedway.org or by calling 874-8383.

“Give online with a credit card, and there’s also information (available) on United Way,” Cothran said. “With one contribution you’re supporting 15 local agencies and charities at one time.”

And with such programs as its “Doc in a Bus” clinic, mobile disaster unit to help April’s tornado victims in Hackleburg, or giving to the area’s Boy and Girl Scouts and Bosco Nutrition Center, Cothran said it’s important to give to your local United Way.

“(With) no donations coming, we wouldn’t be able to help or partner with agencies,” Cothran said. “We’re constantly on the move … we go out and find solutions to the problems. The more folks can give, the more we can help.”