AGAINST a backdrop of worsening economic conditions, the United Way of Greater Toledo has adopted a fairly aggressive fund-raising goal of $15 million, along with a 2008 campaign slogan urging residents of northwest Ohio to "Live United."

The bottom-line message of interdependence - that we're all in this together - is hardly revolutionary but it merits emphasis, given the continuing strain of rising unemployment, which threatens the community's collective livelihood.

Simply put, United Way can succeed by helping a lot of people, although only if everyone who is able helps a little. Those annual donations are crucial, of course, but advocating for charitable causes and volunteering time are vitally important as well.

If the fund-raising target is reached, it would be a 3 percent increase from the $14,553,644 raised for 2007 and would equal United Way's high-water mark for contributions, set in 1999.

Steve Krull, Owens Corning's senior vice president, who is serving as 2008 campaign chairman, says a stand-pat appeal for the coming year was out of the question considering the hardship already affecting some area families.

In response to those needs, United Way made available $250,000 to various agencies for emergency help with food, rent, and utilities in Lucas, Wood, and Ottawa counties in July. The money was expended almost immediately, indicating the need will continue.

Fortunately, preliminary reports are that businesses and industrial concerns are responding positively to do their share for the annual campaign. Among the strategies to promote additional giving are challenges, in which certain new and increased donations will be matched by corporate contributors, including The Blade ($25,000) and Owens Corning ($50,000).

With the social safety net destined to be stretched in unpredictable ways by economic uncertainty, it's in the best interests of everyone who can to do their part and give - a little or a lot, but generously - to this year's United Way.

First Published September 4, 2008, 8:55 a.m.