The Kishwaukee United Way started its annual fund drive to raise money for 31 social service agencies that provide service to local people in need.

The fund drive began Friday with the “14th Day of Caring,” where a rally kicked off with 14 different volunteers in the area.

The local United Way is hoping donations will reach its goal of $405,000. So far, it has collected $10,000 that will be given to local community organizations to help the public, said Dawn Littlefield, a staff member with the Kishwaukee United Way who has been involved with the organization since 1997.

“We started campaigning as early as August, but campaigning is heavy in December,” Littlefieldsaid.

Local agencies that receive funding from Kishwaukee United Way include Safe Passage, a non-profit organization based in DeKalb that is dedicated to helping victims of domestic violence and Hope Haven, a homeless shelter, 1145 Rushmore Drive.

“Even though we make up only 1 to 5 percent of these agencies’ budgets, we are a flexible source, unlike government grants that are restricted,” Littlefield said.

Lisa Williams, the transitional program coordinator for Hope Haven, said she is thankful for the resources Kishwaukee United Way has provided to the shelter.

“They have been very, very helpful and a service for our clients. They do an awesome job in the community and provide for whatever is needed,” Williams said.

Donations last year exceeded expectations when the United Way raised $407,800. The goal last year was the same as this year.

Ninety-three cents of every dollar stays local, while the other seven cents go to administration funding.

Transportation, affordable housing and early childhood education were the primary focus of the organization’s campaign last year.

This year’s primary focus will be determined by the 30-member board of directors from local community affiliates.

The DeKalb County Community Foundation is one of the many affiliates that support Kishwaukee United Way and other non-profit organizations.

“We are about charity and community and support many of the same agencies,” said Jerome Smith, executive director of the DeKalb County Community Foundation.

Kishwaukee United Way, a merger of the DeKalb United Way and the Sycamore United Fund, plans to spread the word about its fund drive by sending out 500 mailings, press releases and recorded radio announcements, Littlefield said.

The organization is also hoping to get more students to volunteer and donate through its “Annual Taste of the Vine Wine Tasting and Silent Auction Event” on Nov. 10 at the Barsema Alumni and Visitors Center.

“I would encourage students to volunteer because the money we raise stays local and helps the community where they go to school,” Littlefield said. “It’s a great way to give to 31 different agencies with one gift.”

Littlefield, who was once the activity adviser for Greek Affairs at NIU, understands a lot of people are donating to Hurricane Katrina relief funds but she does not want the public to forget about local needs.