The people of Butler County have a long history of reaching out to help one another in times of difficulty.

Not only do we know our neighbors by name, we are ready and willing to lend a hand when they need us.

That tradition is carried on through the United Fund of Butler County. Each year, volunteers from across the county band together to raise funds that will be channeled back into the county.

Make no mistake; this is not the United Way. United Fund of Butler County is a local charitable organization.

No money goes to a national office to cover operating expenses or to pay executives.

It all stays here.

Whether it is for books for children to enjoy at the county library; sports equipment for the school children in McKenzie, or help for the disabled at the Butler Activity and Training Center, the monies given to United Fund benefit people across the county.

There are 33 agencies served by United Fund of Butler County. The Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts, the Underprivileged Children's Fund, Safe Harbor, South Butler Rescue Squad, Greenville YMCA, the Greenville-Butler County Boys and Girls Club, McKenzie and Georgiana Youth Activities, the Greenville-Butler County Library and the Music Enrichment Program, are among those benefited by the United Fund.

The goal is $55,000 this year. Just over $10,000 has been raised already, and volunteers urge local businesses, offices, industries and individuals to do their part.

It doesn't require a huge sacrifice.

For just one dollar a week, or one hour's pay a week, you can help make a positive difference in this county.

Neighbors helping neighbors: that's the way we do things in Butler County.