Record $1.1 million raised for charity

The need was great, and the community responded.

The 2007 Gazette-El Pomar Empty Stocking Fund raised a record $1.147 million during December and January, blowing past its $1 million goal.

Friday was the last day to contribute.

The funds will be distributed among 14 nonprofit agencies, with the money going to individuals and families, not administrative costs.

Residents of the Pikes Peak region proved generous as always this holiday season, said Gazette Charities manager Amanda Mountain.

“In what many see as a challenging economy, the only constant is that through the gener- osity of neighbors helping neighbors, our community can be a place of hope and promise for everyone,” Mountain said.

In 2006, the fund raised $969,306.

The final 2007 tally includes $807,229 from individuals and groups and $340,000 in matching contributions from El Pomar, the Bruni Foundation and Gazette Charities.

Some groups got creative with their fundraising efforts.

Colorado College organized a 5K run/walk and a soccer tournament, and the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs hosted a fashion show and concert, Mountain said.

The following charities will receive Empty Stocking Fund money: American Red Cross; Care & Share Food Bank; Catholic Charities of Colorado Springs/Marian House Soup Kitchen; Griffith Centers for Children/Chins Up Center; Ecumenical Social Ministries; Northern Churches Care; Peak Vista Community Health Centers; Pikes Peak Community Action Agency; Salvation Army; Silver Key; Tri-Lakes Cares; Urban Peak; YMCA/Southeast Family Armed Services Center; and Westside CARES.

DETAILS

- The money raised will go to 14 nonprofit agencies.