Curt and Barb Connelly of Burdett are the co-chairmen of the 2011 Schuyler County United Way campaign, leading the way in the effort to raise $128,000 to support 24 human service agencies that serve Schuyler County residents.

Peggy Scott, Schuyler United Way executive director, said that having Curt and Barb Connelly at the helm of this year’s campaign reaffirms United Way’s commitment to the county.

“The Connellys are well-known for their support of many community organizations. We are so pleased to have them as this year’s co-chairs and look forward to working with them. Their enthusiasm and name recognition will bring much to our campaign,” Scott said.

“We have always wanted to volunteer more in the community,” Barb Connelly said. “Now that our kids are older, this is a great opportunity. We’re hoping that by involving Caitlin and Cameron, other kids will be inspired and see what they can do to help their communities.”

Curt is a life-long Schuyler County resident. He is owner and operator of Curly’s Family Restaurant on Route 14 on the edge of Watkins Glen. The restaurant was founded in 1955 by his father, Darwin.

Curt is active in the Burdett Fire Department.

Barb has been spending her volunteer time in the Watkins Glen schools. Lots of it. “I’m there all the time,” she said.

Her commitment to young people is part of her motivation in being part of the United Way campaign, Barb said.

“It’s our duty to our community to help the youth,” she said.

“It’s our turn,” Curt added.

He said he is looking forward to helping United Way “spread the wealth of information” about the agencies that serve Schuyler residents and benefit from the annual campaign.

The Connellys’ children are Caitlin, 15, and Cameron, 12. They attend Watkins Glen schools.