United Way extends deadline on survey

United Way officials have extended the deadline on an online survey that might lead to an expansion of services in Columbia County.

//

The survey asks respondents to rate the need for improvement on such community issues as education, homelessness, crime, illiteracy, drugs, economic development and unemployment.

It initially was meant to conclude on Nov. 29, but the deadline has been extended to Dec. 17.

"We're trying to get as many responses as possible," said Patrick Eskridge, an Augusta State University post-graduate student interning at United Way.

As of last week, about 140 area residents had taken the survey, Eskridge said.

Once the survey ends, an analysis of the collected data will be used to guide focus groups conducted by United Way officials, starting in January.

Depending on the results of the survey and focus groups, the nonprofit agency might consider such options as opening a satellite office in Columbia County, expanding existing initiatives or starting new programs.

Already, the United Way supports the Family Y in Evans, as well as senior and family counseling programs in Martinez.

The survey is available on the United Way's Web site, www.uwcsra.org, and on Columbia County's Web site, at www.columbiacountyga.gov.