United Way of Central Indiana Sets $42.5 Million Goal

United Way of Central Indiana is hoping to raise more money than ever before during its annual campaign.

After falling short of its goal in 2011, the non-profit rebounded last year raising a record $41-million.

This year’s target is $42.5-million and campaign Chair Andy Mohr fully expects to hit the mark.

"We’ve got a lot of needs in our community and we just think we are a community that everybody rallies around and does good work to see our community go to greater heights," he said. "Forty-two-and-a-half-million is representative of that and we are going to hit a new, all-time goal this year."

United Way President and CEO Ann Murtlow says the goal was set so high in part because of a better economic climate.

"This recession has been very tough on everybody and its been pretty long.  But, my sense is things are getting better," she said.  "I think people are ready to start giving back at a new level, especially to support the work we are doing."

The United Way has already raised nearly $8-million, about 19-percent of its goal, through early donations.