The United Way of Freeborn County finished short of its target but came close.

The 2011 campaign reached $598,212. That’s about $63,000 short of its goal of $661,000. In the last two weeks of the year about $179,000 was raised.

Ann Austin, executive director of the United Way, said the 2011 goal was increased because several agencies requested more funds than previous years. United Way funds support 19 partner agencies that are responsible for 33 programs.

Austin said the local United Way chapter has been efficient with its budget in the past year and may have extra funds it could use to offset the campaign shortfall.

She also wanted to thank all of the volunteers and donors for their time and efforts with the campaign. The campaign kicked off Sept. 1 and closed Dec. 31. It featured events such as Keep the Fires Burning, Give to the Max Day, a pancake breakfast and a wine tasting soirée, along with several meetings with companies and agencies about donations.

Last year, the campaign goal was set at $650,000, and the United Way came about $60,000 short.