Volunteers of America

Boys & Girls Clubs of Rochester

Charitable and service organizations across the U.S. and here in Rochester are fighting a tough economy to meet fundraising goals.

According to a recent study, more than half the charities nationwide say they are behind last year's numbers.

Local organizations are seeing fewer donations. The Volunteers of America and R News’ “R Caring Gifts” campaign started with an $80,000 goal, and although donations have been coming in, the challenging economy has had a major impact.

Also, the Salvation Army's Red Kettle Campaign has only hit about 60 percent of its goal and groups like the Boys & Girls Clubs say a drop in donations have come at time when many are facing budget cuts.

"Also we've been monitoring our state and federal contracts as well and obviously there's been cuts to those. There just seems to be cuts across the board and people who normally would be able to give a certain amount because of the economy are not able to give what they would normally be able to give," said Dwayne Mahoney, Boys & Girls Clubs of Rochester.

Mahoney says in this economy charities have been realistic and adjusted their expectations. The “R Caring Gifts” campaign, which runs through December 31, has raised $46,000.

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