The official 2010 United Way campaign kicked off Wednesday at a luncheon held at the Rockdale Hospital before a joint meeting of the Rockdale and Conyers Rotary clubs and special guests.

This year’s goal is $324,000 — a modest increase from last year’s goal.

If there was ever a year to support the United Way campaign in any manner you can, it is this year.

The economic downturn we are suffering through has not only hurt local business; it has hurt their ability to support the major non- profits, like the Barksdale Boys and Girls Club and Rockdale Coalition for Children and Families, that provide for the needs of local families that have been hit hard by the downturn.

If you would like to give or would like information on how your fellow employees can give, or if you can volunteer your time, contact the local United Way office at (678) 623-2857.

You can make a difference and it doesn’t take much of your time to do so.