Local non-profit groups are feeling the pinch of the economy... as fewer people are opening their wallets.

"It's been a difficult fund-raising year for United Way, " says Joanne Kelly, the Executive Director of the United Way of Marathon County.

Kelly says the economy is also causing an increase in need for their services.

"Our 211 call center has seen the call volume go up about 10% and most are for financial assistance. "

She says contributions are down and some programs are in danger of being cut, if they don't make their 3. 1 million dollar fund-raising goal.

From pay roll deductions, about 12 thousand people donated to the United Way last year but Kelly is expecting that number to drop.

"We've been working with a lot of companies, but when it comes down to employees putting pledge on their payroll stubs people are concerned and the economy has a lot to do with that."

Kelly says the troubled economy kept many people from donating.

"Many of the companies that have completed their campaigns and their participation is down 10- 20 percent in many instances and we are still hoping to raise last years number."

The United Way provides financial assistance for 73 programs in Marathon County.

Housing programs, local food pantries, youth programs and organizations like Big Brothers and Big Sisters are some of the programs in danger if they don't get enough donations.

They are also wrapping holiday gifts at the Wausau Center Mall for a donation and that money provides diapers and formula to families in our area.

Kelly says if you are unable to give they are also looking for volunteers.

Jean Tehan, the Executive Director of the Community Foundation says they have also seen an increase in need.

"We're definitely seeing an increase in the number of non profit organizations coming for assistance we're seeing a difference in the amount of money they are requesting."

Tehan says they are paying close attention to what's going on in the financial market and like everyone else they are tightening their belts.

"We put freezes on everything for the following year. In fact we are finding ways to reduce our budget just like everybody else."

On a positive note, the United Way of Portage County exceeded their more than 2 million dollar fund-raising goal... by 10 percent.