When the going gets tough, the tough get going — and giving. That’s the hope of the United Way of the Greater Miss-Lou as it prepares for its 2010 fundraising campaign.

Non-profits all over America have seen declines in contributions over the last several months as the global economy screeched to a halt, then reversed for a bit.

At the moment, we’re beginning to see some small signs that the economy may be picking up just a bit. And of course we all know from history that recessions such as the one we’ve seen are relatively common — and cyclical.

But knowing that the proverbial sky is not, as was feared a few months ago, falling doesn’t make the fear and hesitance to give to charities go away.

The nation’s unemployment rate sits at record rates. And the uncertainty in the economy has caused savings rates to increase dramatically. That itself is a great thing, but it’s also affecting non-profit contributions, too.

We’ve often referred to the United Way as a community mutual fund of giving. Essentially, by giving to the United Way, your contribution gives to multiple agencies throughout the Miss-Lou.

We still feel strongly about the United Way’s mission and the need seen through the community by the various agencies served by the United Way.

We know great needs exist in our community and we hope that as the going gets tough, the generous will help fill those needs.