United Way of Douglas County closed its 2008-2009 campaign with $1.72 million in donations, reaching its goal for the year.

The money collected in the campaign — a full $20,000 above the original estimated total, and right on target with the $1.72 million goal — will be invested into after-school care, shelter programs and other community improvement projects.

“In these challenging times, we consider that a successful benchmark,” said Colleen Gregoire, vice president and campaign manager with United Way of Douglas County. “We’re very grateful to everyone in the community who helped support the campaign.”