GREENE – More than 20 Chenango County businesses will participate in the Chenango United Way’s latest fundraising campaign, the Point of Purchase Window Coupon Campaign (POP). Campaign Director Rebecca O’Connor said she hopes the new fundraiser will help the local United Way in reaching its annual fall campaign goal of $435,000.

The premise for the fundraiser is simple, according to O’Connor – through Aug. 7, local businesses simply ask for a $1 donation from customers in exchange for a coupon, to be filled out with the customer’s name and displayed on windows and walls around the business.

“We were looking for new opportunities to engage small businesses with this year’s fundraising campaign,” stated O’Connor, who took over as campaign director in mid-June. “It’s important to have the community united in a common goal and it’s a chance for them to involve themselves with the greater good as it concerns the needs of the community.”

Victoria Pezzino, manager and chef at Mimi’s Italian Cuisine, 28 Genesee St., agreed, and said the decision to become involved with the local United Way was an easy one.

“This is really the first year we’ve participated with the United Way and we’re absolutely excited to be involved with anything that helps give back to the community, it’s a huge plus,” stated Pezzino, whose father opened the Italian eatery approximately 20 years ago. “With all of the economic craziness it makes it even more important to do our part and I think it’s an obligation we have at this time.”

Other local businesses involved with the POP Campaign include Garf’s Deli, AIM Fitness, The Cafe Connection, McLaughlin’s Department Store, Benedict’s, Chenango Massage Therapy, Fred’s Inn, the Park Place Lounge and Restaurant, Dusty’s Dairy Bar and Grille, Joe and Vinny’s Pizzeria, the D & D Diner, Gilligan’s Island, Hoppie’s, Ye Olde Shanty and Homestead Pet and Farm.