The Ypsilanti Daily Press

Community Fund Leaders Hopeful

A complete analysis of Community War Fund campaign results to date discloses that while there is cause for anxiety over the way the campaign is dragging, victory is still very definitely possible. Paul Ungrodt, campaign manager, points out that out of 1,600 prospects in the hands of all divisions of the campaign organization, only 460 have been reported on. In other words, $24,000 or 50% of the campaign goal has been subscribed by about 25% of the prospective givers. Special gifts is 75% complete in its work, Commercial and Professional Division 25% complete. Organized Labor Division less than 20% complete.

In discussing the outlook of the campaign Mr. Ungrodt today said 'We are meeting new obstacles by the ending of the war and confusion of reconversion uncertainties, But the fact remains that if every worker sees every prospect, and every citizen who is able and willing gives, we can win the fight and maintain our community reputation for generously taking care of our share of human needs.'

Rev. Raymon Bair, president of the Community War Fund, expressed the opinion that if people really understood how critical the needs were, and how real they were, there would be no question about the outcome of the campaign. 'The needs are there,' said Mr. Bair, 'we have the financial ability to meet them easily if we have the faith and confidence and unselfish generosity that a Christian should have. If we fall short in this campaign,' continued Mr. Bair, 'not only will we contribute to the disappointment and unrest of soldiers and the millions of people in war torn nations, but we will be striking a crippling blow at the programs of our own local agencies such as Family Service, the Veterans Center, City Recreation, youth programs such as Scouting, the Salvation Army, in fact all of the privately conducted welfare work that has been so painstakingly developed over the past 25 years. We must not fail.'

New workers in the campaign this year are Catholic women representing the National Council. Two teams are under direction of Mrs. Owen J. Cleary. Sales amounting to $176 have been reported.

While totals are low as compared with previous years, Chairman Dan T. Quirk today expressed confidence in Ypsilanti people to achieve victory in the campaign.

In the Retail, Professional and Residential division Basil Wheeler, chairman, saw hope in some of the increases in individual contributions.

Employee groups with a quota of $10,000 have turned in $1,380.

Next reports for the campaign will be tabulated Tuesday at a noon luncheon meeting.