The annual Cornell United Way campaign prepares to kick off on campus in the coming weeks with a new goal of $627,000 and will be led once again by Charles Walcott, dean of the Cornell University faculty. Pledge cards will be distributed beginning the first week in October.

The Tompkins County United Way campaign officially begins Thursday, Sept. 15, with a "Souper Day of Caring," when the community is asked to "fill the pavilion" at Stewart Park with canned and boxed food and personal care and household items. Cornell students, staff and faculty are encouraged to contribute. The event will be held from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. under the large pavilion at Stewart Park.

Walcott heads a cabinet whose charge each year is to encourage ever-greater commitment from staff and faculty.

"It can't be overstated that the needs of the community increase with each year," said Walcott. "As public funding for human service agencies continues to diminish at both the state and federal levels, it is incumbent upon those of us in more secure positions to assist in the greater good. That's why we ask all members of the Cornell community to reflect on the potential impact that their contributions can make on the lives of people in the very county where we earn our keep."

United Way campaign contributions go to support almost 100 programs through 26 United Way member agencies and 10 community councils, Walcott said. "Together we can help improve the lives of hundreds of people right here in Tompkins County."