Agencies and companies from across Dallas County were awarded for their commitment and generous donations to the United Way of Selma-Dallas County during an awards breakfast Thursday, at Wallace Community College-Selma.

Thanks to their contributions, United Way executive director Jeff Cothran said the agency has raised $325,000 for its 2011-2012 campaign.

“That’s about $7,000 more than last year (2010-2011),” Cothran said. “We’ve also increased allocations to agencies by 10 percent. We’re trying to recognize all the companies that do such a major job, and all companies that have made our campaign successful.”

Having already raised nearly $1,500 for next year’s (2013) campaign, Cothran said he’s pleased with the efforts of the agency’s numerous agency partners.

“This year’s campaign was very successful — we’re real happy,” Cothran said. “Right now we’re running more efficient than we’ve ever been … 92 cents of each dollar (given) goes into direct services.”

Companies such as Bush Hog, Alagasco, Alabama Power, Zeigler, Broadsouth Communication, The Selma Times-Journal and International Paper, were just some of the 15 partners who were recognized with a commemorative plaque Thursday.

The agencies, Cothran said, have helped Dallas County survive during the economic downturn.

“The past three years have been really hard for Dallas County … but I’m so proud of our partner agencies,” Cothran said. “Without you, this community has an enormous hole in its heart — but you fill it. We’re blessed to have the businesses who want to be a better partner and neighbor in the community.”

United Way board president Don King said he appreciates Cothran’s hard work.

“Jeff does a wonderful job in administrating this whole thing,” King said. “Without these people (agencies), we can’t exist or help the people of Dallas County.”

Cothran said the agency takes pledges year-round and hopes to work with the spring campaign in the next couple of months. To make a pledge, call 874-8383.