Two fundraising veterans and members of multiple city and county boards will lead the United Way of Douglas County’s fundraising efforts this year, the organization announced Monday.

Richard and Debbie Konzem, who serve on 15 local boards combined, will serve as co-chairs for the United Way’s fundraising campaign for 2006-2007.

“I think the United Way provides such a great opportunity for people to make a one-stop shopping for their donations,” Richard Konzem said.

Richard Konzem currently works as president of a college sports consulting company. Debbie Konzem is a vice president for AT&T. They have both raised funds for several area organizations.

The two will help the United Way raise funds for the myriad charities the organization supports, including the Boys & Girls Club, the Health Care Access Clinic, The Salvation Army and Van Go Mobile Arts.

According to Internal Revenue Service records, the organization distributed more than $1 million in 2004.

Richard Konzem said that the United Way’s board serves an important role, acting as an oversight committee to ensure that people’s donations get to the charities donors want to support.

The Konzems also will assist in the organization of the countywide fall fundraiser and act as United Way representatives at major campaign events.