Service organizations made their pitch to young professionals in the community Wednesday evening, hoping to increase membership.

Young Professionals of Warren County heard from various organizations at the Holiday Inn.

Barbara McGuinness of the League of Women Voters said the league's purpose is to promote political responsibility.

The local organization has been around for 50 years, McGuinness said, making it one of the older ones in the state.

United Fund Director Mike Hostovich said the organization's annual torchlight campaign has raised over $2.5 million over the past four years.

The organization is associated with the United Way of Pennsylvania, Hostovich said, but not United Way of America.

Kiwanis Secretary Dick Merenick said his organization offers members the opportunity to become leaders.

Many members are retired, Merenick said, highlighting the need for younger recruits.

Lions Club King Lion Jim Embry said members of his group never miss an opportunity to use the "Weenie Wagon," a portable concession stand serving sausages, hot dogs and drinks.

The Lions became involved with eyesight issues at the behest of Helen Keller, Embry said.

Diane Scarcella of the Ophelia Project said the group works to end relational aggression, which causes three million students to miss class every year in the United States.

Exchange Club President Kerry Gern said the organization's main project is to end child abuse.

The group also maintains the Warren Area Student Union, Gern said.

Mary Ann Zdarko of Zonta said members of her organization work to advance the status of women.

The group offers scholarships to non-traditional students, Zdarko said.

John Elchert of Rotary said his organization is dedicated to the eradication of polio.

There are still three or four countries where the disease exists, Elchert said.

Lisa Thompson said CASA works to support abused or neglected children.

Court Appointed Special Advocates make an extensive commitment, Thompson said, but the work is rewarding.

John Schwone of Jaycees said his organization's accomplishments include the industrial softball tournament, Fourth of July parade and tennis courts at Beaty Park.

The group's age limit makes it difficult to retain membership, Schwone said.