Lew Lause has been selected to lead United Way of Marion County's fall fund drive. As campaign chairman for 2008, he will preside over the countywide canvassing effort, which helps support more than 40 area programs.

Lause has been shooting location and studio photography for more than 30 years. His talent excels in working with people, being sensitive to those who are not models and photographing them in believable situations. An opportunity to work as the house photographer with Swink Advertising led him to Marion 30 years ago.

Today he operates his own studio in Marion and travels extensively throughout the United States on assignment. His work ranges from family portraits to commercial advertising accounts.

"Lew has been a friend to the Marion community and specifically to United Way of Marion County for many years," said United Way Executive Director Pam Stone. "The campaign chairmanship is just one more way in which we are privileged to work with this talented and caring man."

In addition to Lause’s United Way involvement, his community service includes a seat on the finance committee of St. Mary Church and the boards of the Marion Area Chamber of Commerce and the Palace Theatre. He has also volunteered as chair of the Marion County Convention and Visitors Bureau. He was also instrumental in bringing the Celebrate Summer Arts Festival to downtown Marion.

In addition to Lause, the following volunteers will head up this year’s campaign:

• Campaign Co-Chair: Kerr Murray - Retired
• Pillars Chair: Matt Primmer - Marion County Job & Family Services
• Industry Division: Troy Ruehrmund - Marion Industrial Center
• Finance Division: Chris Hord – National City Bank
• Public Service: Tracie Wilson – Chase Bank
• Professional Division: Del Duffy – UBS Financial Services
• Educational Division: Robbie Troll - Marion City Schools
• Retail/Small Business: Shawne Rayl – Heartland of Marion
• County Solicitation: Katie Chivington - United Church Homes
• Marion Residential: Melinda Gilpin – Ohio Historical Society
• Campaign Assistant: Peggy Ebner - Marion Technical College