ILION, N.Y. - The United Way of the Valley and Greater Utica Area held its 2nd Annual Mid-Campaign Report Thursday morning at Francesca's Banquet Hall in the Village of Ilion.

Board members, staff, campaign cabinet volunteers and the 2012 Campaign Co-chairs reported on the current progress of the 2012-2013 Annual Campaign and recognized one local organization's efforts with the Outstanding Pacesetter Award.

Campaign Co-Chairs Jim and Alicia Brockway, both from M&T Bank, gave a campaign overview highlighting key events throughout the first half of the 2012 Campaign, recognized in-kind gifts from local media outlets, and recognized the three main sponsors of this year's Great Community Challenge. Executive Director Brenda Episcopo announced that the annual campaign has currently raised $485,007 toward the community fundraising goal of $2.4 million.

"We are very proud of all the hard work that has gone into campaign efforts so far and are excited to report we are nearing the $500,000 mark at this mid-point in the annual fundraising campaign," Brenda Episcopo, Executive Director said. "We have given more than 70 presentations at local business and have many more planned throughout the remainder of the year. A majority of campaign pledges come in as we near the end of the year. There is still time to contribute through your workplace campaign, individual gift, online donation or the new text-to-give program."

The Outstanding Pacesetter Award was given to Presbyterian Homes & Services for their outstanding work raising their organization's overall donation level by 134%. Michael Sweeney, CEO, and Mary Pratt, Director of Human Resources at Presbyterian Homes & Services accepted the award on behalf of their organization.

Those interested in workplace campaigns or individual gifts are invited to call United Way at (315) 733-4691 or visit www.unitedwaygu.org to donate online.

Anyone interested in taking advantage of the Text-to-Give option can text the work "LIVE" to 52000. A $10.00 donation will be added to your monthly phone bill - regular messaging rates and fees apply.