As the President and Publisher of the Ledger-Enquirer, I have the privilege of serving as the current United Way campaign director. Like you, I am celebrating this holiday season by giving thanks for the many blessings in my life, including family and friends. It's also a good time to remember that there are still so many families and individuals in our community who have pressing needs this season.

Your mailbox is probably filled with year-end appeals from charitable organizations, and you face a wide variety of options when it comes to giving.

For me, the choice is clear: United Way of the Chattahoochee Valley.

With United Way of the Chattahoochee Valley you can make one pledge, or write one check, and support 50 different programs throughout our eight-county region. You can help children have a nutritious meal to eat, help teens find an adult mentor who'll help them through troubling times, support single parents with quality child care so they can work and gain financial stability.

One donation does it all.

I also know as a volunteer with United Way that the agencies and programs it funds each year demonstrate high rates of success in making true, lasting changes in people's lives right here in our community.

As I have visited companies during the campaign, I have been overwhelmed by the amount of generosity people in our community have shown. The ability to have a successful campaign happens only in strong communities with caring individuals. We are fortunate to call the Chattahoochee Valley our home.

On behalf of the board of directors, staff and countless volunteers that is helping make this campaign a success, and most importantly on behalf of the thousands of United Way recipients, I sincerely and humbly say thank you to each and every company, organization and individual who contributed to this year's campaign. Your contribution -- no matter how big or small -- makes the difference!

It is not too late to give this year. You can contribute to the campaign online at www.unitedwayofthecv.org or by calling the United Way office at 706-327-3255. I hope you will consider making an impact in the lives of people who need your help right here at home!

I, along with the Chattahoochee Valley board of directors and staff, would like to wish you and your family a safe, happy and blessed holiday season.

Rodney Mahone, president and publisher of the Ledger-Enquirer, is the 2012-2013 United Way campaign chair; rmahone@ledger-enquirer.com.