DECATUR - There was a celebratory mood at the United Way of Decatur and Mid-Illinois 86th annual meeting and awards dinner Thursday night, although the 2007 campaign total of $2,437,818 was slightly below the $2.5 million goal.

Chris Ellis of Brown, Robinson & Ellis LLP, the campaign chairman, noted the sluggish economy caused fears for jobs and opportunities.

"Yet, this community came together, gave together. I'm excited to have been a part of it," he said. "I have another $63,000 to raise. I think we did an incredible job, and I look forward to the future. I plan to keep serving the United Way."

Three weeks ago, the campaign was $200,000 short. The shortage was almost wiped out. "I've been on the job for five months," said Denise Smith, the new United Way executive director. "I've received a warm welcome; it's been a rewarding experience. We've had phenomenal results. You should know that the Decatur United Way has raised more than $79 million over the years."

Archer Daniels Midland Co. was the main contributor, with a combined total of more than $600,000. Employees raised $282,340, said Mirinda Rothrock, community engagement manager. That was tops among employee campaigns. Company matches and double matches swelled the total.

"In addition to giving money, ADM employees are volunteering in the community more and more," Rothrock said, citing Big Brothers Big Sisters, Meals on Wheels and United Cerebral Palsy, among others.

ADM received a Cornerstone Award, along with Caterpillar Inc. and UPS. Caterpillar employees contributed $252,000, and UPS employees added $112,000. UPS also received the A Company That Cares Award.

Other awards included;

n Spirit of Caring Award: Dynagraphics Inc., Greater Decatur Chamber of Commerce, Millikin University, Decatur Memorial Hospital

n Groundbreaking Award: Community Health Improvement Center

n Rising Sun Award: Huston Patterson

n Pillar Award: Blank Wesselink and Cook

n Employee Campaign Manager of the Year Award: Erin Brownlow and the Busey Bank team

n Chairman's Award: Jean Flider

The meeting in the Decatur Club closed on a high note with the unveiling of a new theme, "Live United."

Julie Gahwiler of Decatur Custom Tool will be the 2008 campaign chairwoman.

Twenty-three agencies operating youth development programs, improving access to health care or meeting basic needs for food and shelter will receive United Way funds.

Bob Fallstrom can be reached at bfallstrom@herald-review.com or 421-7981.