While temperatures were in the 70s Monday, the thermometer for the United Fund of Surry went up to 60 — that is 60 percent of its goal of raising $500,000.

Kate Appler, executive director of the United Fund, said although many companies have exceeded past fundraising goals, it will be harder this year to raise money because of the economy.

“It’s going to be a struggle,” Appler said.

Dr. Ashley Hinson, superintendent of Surry County Schools, is the chairman of the United Fund’s campaign this year. Sonia Dickerson is the Surry County School System’s campaign coordinator. She said with 17 schools participating, the system has already exceeded its goal this year. Donations from the schools come from staff only, students are not asked to contribute.

“Our goal was to raise $32,000 and we’ve already raised $50,000 so far, and I think part of that is that everyone is so excited that Dr. Hinson is the campaign chairman this year. It is unbelievable that everybody has gone above and beyond with their contributions this year,” Dickerson said.

Hinson said he is pleased with how much everyone is giving this year.

“I think they are giving so much because they know the money will go directly or indirectly right back into the community,” Hinson said.

Appler said that she has seen increases in giving so far from Hanesbrands, which went 10 percent over its goal, and Mount Airy City Schools, which went 45 percent over its goal. She said SouthData went 35 percent over its goal from last year. Blue Ridge Burke, Southern Community Bank and Surrey Bank & Trust also exceeded their goals.

The campaign kicked off on Aug. 23 and fundraising will continue until its goal is met.

For more information, contact the United Fund of Surry at www.ufgma.org or call 789-3087.

Contact Mondee Tilley at mtilley@mtairynews.com or at 719-1930.