IT IS no secret that the Ohio Valley embraces a worthy cause. The valley’s humanitarian side has recently come to the forefront again.

The generosity was delivered in the form of overwhelming support for the annual United Way campaign.

WesBanco trust officer Kristie Barnett served as campaign chair for this year’s funding drive, setting a goal of $789,000. The goal was an ambitious one, but one that proved attainable.

Barnett announced last week that the campaign not only reached the goal but surpassed it with room to spare, topping out at $820,000. The extra revenue will mean expanded services to the United Way agencies.

“It was a community effort and the community recognizes the needs the area has and the work these agencies do,” Barnett said.

The United Way supports 28 local non-profit agencies, encompassing a wide range of needs.

Some of the non-profit organizations that will receive help through the organization include the American Red Cross, Boy Scouts of America-Ohio River Valley Council, Family Services of the Upper Ohio Valley, Girl Scouts of the USA-Black Diamond Council, Russell Nesbitt Services, Seeing Hand Association and Wheeling Health Right to name just some of the 28.

It is easy to see why the local area supports the United Way. The agencies that it funds play an integral part to countless people in need. The community can identify with that, and consequently step up to offer financial backing.

We commend Barnett and her army of volunteers for a successful campaign. We also commend all those who donated to help make $820,000 a reality.