United Way of West Alabama is looking toward its upcoming fundraising campaign, which helps provide services through the organization to the West Alabama counties it serves, with anticipation of a strong drive.

Howard Garrison, of Duckworth-Morris-Garrison Real Estate and 2007 United Way of West Alabama campaign chairman recently announced the 2007 United Way campaign goal.

The group recently began a movement in Black Belt counties to provide a 211 service, which allows quick and easy to remember access to the organization&8217;s help line. Joanne Miles, the communications and community relations director for West Alabama United Way, said the service is a way to provide better access of the organization&8217;s services for some of the area it is responsible for that are farther away from the local base in Tuscaloosa.

To counterbalance the large area the group covers, Miles said the group has worked to expand into outlying areas and provide them with better access to services.

Garrison who served as Vice Chair during the 2006 Campaign said that it is the generosity and support of people in West Alabama has made possible the continuation of these services.

Garrison who has been active in the real estate business in Tuscaloosa for over 30 years has been involved with a number of community and civic organizations. He has served in numerous positions with the Chamber of Commerce, was on the board of United Cerebral Palsy West Alabama, the Boy Scouts, Boys and Girls Clubs and the American Red Cross.

The 2007 Campaign will kick off on August 22. It is scheduled to end on November 9.

Anyone wishing information about United Way of West Alabama may call 345-6640.

A United Way of West Alabama Press release contributed to this report.