GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. -

The United Way of Mesa County hosted its 54th Annual 'Live United Awards' at the DoubleTree hotel in Grand Junction Thursday afternoon.

United Way works to bring essential funds to the organizations that need it most; non-profits.

The group thanked several community groups for their contributions this past year.

Each year, members run a campaign fundraiser to collect as much money as possible to put back into the community.

Throughout the 2012/2013 campaign, the group managed to raise $1,002,102, which is 80% of the $1.25M goal.

This year's total is a 7% decrease from the amount raised at the same time last year.

According to Karen Troester, Co-Chair for United Way of Mesa County, "The last three years in fundraising has been extremely challenging, United Way serves so many wonderful organizations in this community. And [the money raised] just really enables them to go out there and fund these organizations that count on them."

Special campaign awards were given to organizations funded by the United Way of Mesa County, and individuals and businesses that donate to United Way.

The Mary J. Nelson Inspirational Award recognizes a United Way funded agency that has displayed exemplary community leadership and a high standard of service to clients. This year's recipient was Grand Valley Catholic Outreach.

Several philanthropy awards were handed out at the ceremony as well:

  • The Ingenuity Award (Creative use of United Way campaign theme through Reality TV) was given to Hospice & Palliative Care of Western Colorado
  • The Raul Ramos Memorial Award (Leadership in the workplace) was given to School District 51
  • The Trail Blazer Award (Company with significant involvement) was given to Hoskin, Farina & Kampf
  • The Spirit of Giving Award (Exemplifies spirit of United Way through community support and corporate philanthropy) was given to CenurtyLink, Inc

If you or your business wants to contribute to the 2012/2013 campaign, pledges are still open until March, 15.

You can make your pledge by visiting: http://www.unitedwaymesacounty.org