More than a dozen western New York companies have joined together in an effort to save the Empire State Games this year.

The games were cancelled last year due to the state's financial crisis.

First Niagara Financial Group kicked off the fundraising effort in March, when it announced a $500,000 donation to the event, which brought the state about halfway to the $1 million goal.

Now, 17 other companies have pledged their support to the games, including YNN's parent company, Time Warner Cable.

"We look at the games as another venue for youth. Sports always creates good structure for students and so between what we're trying to do in 'Connect a Million Minds' and trying to encourage being active and sort of having a structured lifestyle, we think presenting these games is a great way to get that message out," said Terence Rafferty, Time Warner Cable area vice president.

The summer games are scheduled for July 21 through the 25. The money raised will also serve as a foundation for the state's annual winter games, senior games and the games for the physically challenged.

Time Warner Cable will carry the opening ceremonies live across upstate New York and provide daily updates from the games.

Empire State Games