The United Way Estevan has established a goal of $335,000 for its 2012 telethon.

The amount represents the highest goal that the organization has ever set.

Treasurer Lynn Trobert said the United Way's 19 member agencies have seen their financial needs increase, and that's why this year's goal is higher. Funds raised during the telethon in October will be directed to the member agencies, which meet a variety of needs in the community.

Trobert said the local United Way's board is confident that they will surpass their goal.

“Last year we kept our goal at $300,000, and we did reach that,” said Trobert. “We know it's a little bit higher (this year), but we just felt that after last year, we can get through almost anything. I think we're going to be okay, and we have full confidence that the community will go award and support us.”

This year's telethon is October 12 and 13. Trobert said they are still looking for volunteers and entertainment.

They have also set their theme for this year, which is “Be the Difference.”

Last year the United Way raised $370,647 during its annual telethon. The total for pledges and donations in 2011 was more than $454,000, as some donations came in after the telethon.

The United Way Estevan has been the first in Canada to reach their goal 34 times during the 35-year history of their telethon, and they have reached their goal every year.