By Susan Peterson

Gazette Staff

The generosity of Harvard faculty, staff, and retirees helped the Community Gifts through Harvard Campaign raise $734,777 for charities this year.

The drive surpassed its $700,000 goal and generated more than $48,000 over last year's total.

"This was another record-setting year for the Community Gifts Program," said President Neil L. Rudenstine. "Once again, I want to extend my thanks to the thousands of people who have been so generous in supporting organizations and activities that make such a difference in the life of our neighboring communities."

James Rowe, Vice President for Government, Community and Public Affairs, and Campaign chair, applauded the Harvard community for its support.

"It was a very positive campaign," Rowe said. "We surpassed our target by about five percent. The generosity of our donors, combined with the diversity of charitable choices, were the keys to our success."

United Way received $365,634 -- or 52 percent of the proceeds. Boston-area and national charities collectively received $369,143, of which $91,993 will go directly to 100 Cambridge charities, and $197,277 will go to 228 Boston-area charities.

Campaign manager Mary Ann Jarvis, associate director of community relations, credits added effort by the solicitors as an important factor in the success of this year's campaign.

"Campaign workers were energetic and committed," Jarvis said. "They made the difference."

Thirty-nine percent of the Harvard community, including staff, faculty, and retirees, participated in the fundraising drive, which is about the same as last year, but the per capita donation had an $8 increase.

More than 650 organizations are benefiting from the Community Gifts Campaign, including Community Works, AIDS Action Committee, Rosie's Place, Planned Parenthood, Partners in Health, Salvation Army Horizons Initiative, Combined Jewish Philanthropies, Shelter Inc., Phillips Brooks House, Literacy Volunteers of Massachusetts, American Cancer Society, Oxfam America, and Catholic Charities.