A large part of the Steubenville community gathered Tuesday night at the St. John Arena.

The event was the carnival and campaign kickoff held by the United Way of Jefferson County.

The theme of this year's campaign is Live United, and the United Way's board of directors has set a goal of $430,000. That's money that will directly benefit the 20 member agencies that provide much-needed services to area residents.

Mike Mehalik, Jefferson County Developmental Disabilities superintendent, is serving as chair for this year's campaign. A lifelong resident of our area, Mehalik acknowledges that we are faced with economic challenges, but he also knows that Jefferson County residents also respond when their neighbors ask for help.

United Ways across the country focus on income, education and health, the building blocks of independence. The goal is to provide the leadership and resources needed to allow people to improve their lives.

Joining Mehalik on the leadership team are Nancy Grim, the executive director, and John J. Mascio, president of the board of directors.

While the focus was on Jefferson County Tuesday, it's important to keep in mind that other area United Ways will soon be opening their campaigns. The Weirton United Way, for instance, will start its campaign during a Sept. 15 dinner at the Serbian American Cultural Center. Brian James of ArcelorMittal will chair that campaign. Cheryl Costello serves as executive director of the Weirton United Way while William Kiefer is board president.

We hope that every area resident will contribute in some way to this year's United Way campaign. Doing so will ensure that your money goes to help area residents who are in need.