Although $65,000 had been raised as of last week for this year's State Employees' Campaign for Charitable Giving, the total falls short of the $100,000 goal. Only 9 percent of University employees have made contributions. Donations may still be made through December 31.

"There are members of our community that could use our help," says Joe Briody, chairperson of the campaign.

Briody says the Thanksgiving holiday is a great time to give thanks by providing support to families and communities statewide through the charitable campaign. "This time of year there is a greater awareness of what we have, what we need, and those who are in greater need than us," he says.

Each state employee has received a donation card and a booklet listing more than 900 organizations eligible for contributions.

Donors who submit their donation cards before November 30 will be entered into drawings for $25 gift certificates to the Co-op, lunches for two at the Nutmeg Grille, basketball tickets, parking passes, $50 gift certificates to the Altnaveigh Inn, and more. Area businesses, such as Subway, Sgt. Pepperoni, Dominos, Willington Pizza, Civic Pub, Co-op, and Track Nine Diner, have shown support by supplying items for campaign events.

Donors may send cards to U-3185. Those with questions or who need another booklet or card can contact Sarah Ackley at (860) 486-1001.

Marisha Chinsky