The leaders of neighborhoods throughout Martin County are launching another phase of the United Way campaign.

Community-based campaigns -- led by residents of gated communities and other neighborhood associations -- are starting to gear up. Such campaigns become most active when seasonal residents return to the area.

Communities such as Loblolly and Harbour Ridge have well-organized campaigns and strong leadership. About two-thirds of the residents of both communities give to United Way, amounting to hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Other communities are trying to find ways to encourage residents to boost their participation in the United Way campaign.

For example, John and Helen Sebold, the community campaign coordinators in Monarch Country Club, have posed a challenge their neighbors: “Last year, only 17 percent of Monarch residents contributed to United Way. We can do better!”

Campaign coordinators in other communities are sending out similar letters to help United Way of Martin County achieve its goal of $2.2 million.

“In most other cities, workplace giving is about 80 percent of the campaign,” said Lucy Corley, director of development. “In Martin County, it is only about 50 percent. That’s why community campaigns can help make such a difference.”

This year, community campaign leaders have the United Way Step-Up Challenge to drive greater giving. United Way is conducting a sweepstakes to give away a 2007 Dodge Caliber, courtesy of Massey-Yardley Chrysler Dodge. For a new or additional $52 donation (a buck a week), people can enter a drawing for the car. 

For information, please call Lucy Corley at (772) 283-4800, ext. 222.

More information about United Way of Martin County and the Step Up Challenge also is available at www.unitedwaymartincounty.org.