JAY/LIVERMORE FALLS — Verso employees exceeded two major goals for the this year’s United Way Campaign, raising $100,000 from 65 percent of the workforce. A total of 133 of the 343 contributors were first-time donors.

The campaign team at Verso, led by Doug DiPasquale, set two major goals:  increase participation from 50 to 60 percent; raise contributions from $70,000 to $85,000.

Contributions from workplace campaigns support programs offered in the community such as Meals on Wheels, housing/shelter, food, heating assistance and Literacy Volunteers. Contributions also help support initiatives coordinated by the United Way, including Packs for Progress, or backpacks and supplies provided to area children who need it, and the Community Energy Challenge, where custom-made interior windows are made in community workshops to help save energy costs.

Children have access to camps and recreational opportunities or therapeutic services through the Hope Fund. Special Projects funding for organizations such as Maine Adaptive Outdoor education center and Mallett School are also made possible through the support of generous donors.