Four years ago, the United Way of Douglas County launched its annual fundraiser in the shadow of the 9-11 attacks and struggled to reach its financial goals.

Thursday, the organization launched its 2005 campaign in the wake of Hurricane Katrina, with officials aware that the disaster could pose a similar challenge.

“We have talked about that,” said Ann Gardner, chairwoman of this year’s United Way campaign and editorial page editor of the Journal-World. “We really think and hope the community will see the need to help.”

Gardner said the organization’s goal was to better last year’s fundraising total of $1.55 million. It’s off to a good start.

Lawrence’s “Pacesetter” companies had raised more than $365,000 before the official campaign kickoff.

The World Company, the Journal-World’s parent company, led all Pacesetter organizations by contributing more than $58,000.

Clay LaPierre, 3, with his mother, Linda LaPierre, watches himself on a video promoting the United Way of Douglas County. The LaPierre family received assistance through a United Way agency, the Douglas County Child Development Assn. and the Childcare Scholarship Program. The LaPierres attended the 2005-06 United Way of Douglas County campaign kickoff Thursday at the Lied Center.

But much of the community’s Pacesetter money was raised before Katrina hit. Local United Way leaders said they hoped there were enough charitable dollars to go around.

“Obviously, people want to step forward and help those less fortunate through the hurricane difficulties,” said Tim Van Leer, director of the Lied Center and chairman of Kansas University’s United Way campaign. “But at the same time, we have to remember organizations in our community that will need support as well.”

Two dozen social service agencies are supported by United Way funds, including the Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts, Health Care Access and the Douglas County Child Development Assn.

• 6News video: United Way begins annual fundraiser (09-08-05)
• United Way of Douglas County

“I think, without exception, the agencies United Way supports are running on a shoestring,” Gardner said. “Every dollar they don’t get is noticed.”

Gardner said she hoped that meeting the goals wouldn’t be a problem.

“This community has a really big heart,” she said.