The United Way of Estevan has established a goal of $300,000 for its 2010 telethon.

Local president James Trobert said he is confident that the United Way will surpass their goal once again this year, because the community has a strong tradition of supporting the United Way.
“We're excited about this year's telethon, and we know that the people of Estevan will definitely come through once again and make us No. 1 in Canada,” said Trobert.

The telethon has topped the $300,000 mark in the last three years.

Trobert noted that in most years, less than 10 per cent of the funds raised at the telethon are earmarked for administration and other expenses. At least 90 per cent of the funds are directed to the local United Way’s 20 member agencies.

“The United Way is an institution in Estevan, the community has always come through for us, and they've been so generous with their support,” said Trobert.

“We're confident that the city will again rally behind this. The majority of the money stays in the community, it benefits the community, so everybody knows that it's going to a very worthwhile cause.”

The telethon takes place on October 15 and 16. Estevan's United Way has been the first in Canada to reach its goal 32 times in the telethon’s 33-year history.