CHENANGO COUNTY – Approximately 23 community volunteers filled a conference room at Norwich Pharmaceuticals Friday for a training session for the United Way’s Employee Campaign Coordinators.

Although they were sure this year’s campaign will have its challenges, the volunteers said they are cautiously optimistic about the campaign. Co-Chair Amber Harrison said the prices for necessity items are increasing the cost of living for everyone, and donations will be needed more than ever. “It’s not just the impoverished who need help this year,” she said.

Another factor that may have a detrimental effect on the campaign is the absence of long-time employer and community supporter Procter & Gamble Pharmaceuticals. After many years, the company is now pulling its final operations out of the area. However, a handful of new employee campaigns are springing up that will hopefully fill the place P&G will leave. A complete list of new businesses is still being compiled, and will be released at a later date.

Increased fuel and gas prices are taking a toll on many in Chenango County, but volunteer Rowena Krum said, “People really need to be humble enough to know that although times are tough, you might be much better off than your neighbors or others around you.”