North Augusta 2000 is closer to meeting its $2 million fundraising goal thanks to a $35,000 check presented to the community organization on Oct. 23 by Washington Savannah River Co. and Washington International.
The two companies made a commitment to support North Augusta 2000 earlier this year. North Augusta 2000 board member Jack Herrmann said the $35,000 gift is the first installment of at least three years of donations the Washington group has pledged to make.
"We're an integral part of the community," said Leo Sain, the president of Washington Savannah River Co. "We fully support (North Augusta 2000) and will show that support today and in the next few years."
North Augusta 2000's first five-year capital campaign raised $1.8 million and allowed for the implementation of 32 projects, which included Real Life 101 courses at North Augusta High School and the Reading Readiness program.
New initiatives for the next five-year campaign include establishing a lifelong learning program for people of all ages, a senior citizen center and a grant program for neighborhood improvement projects.
Chuck Smith, an Aiken County councilman and vice-chairman of North Augusta 2000, said the organization is still two or three months away from wrapping up the fundraising campaign.
"We feel very good that we're going to reach that goal," he said.
Former Mayor Tom Greene, chairman of North Augusta 2000, expressed his appreciation for the partnership of Washington Savannah River Co. and Wash-ington International.
"These people have been a great neighbor and a great partner with North Augusta 2000," he said. "We hope and look forward to the same success we've had in the last five years."
Reach Lisa Kaylor at lisa.kaylor@northaugustatoday.com.
