SOUTHPORT, Ind. -- The mayor of Southport said he's giving his giving his entire 2008 salary to charity in hopes of inspiring others to give as well.

A dentist by trade, Rob Thoman has been on the job for about a year. At an announcement on Friday, Thoman said running for mayor was never about the money, so he's giving his $8,600 annual salary to the 2008 United Way Annual Campaign.

"We've thought about this a long time. My wife and I and a few other people tried to figure out how to redirect this money to the place that needed it the most," he told 6News' Julie Pursley.

The money will be donated to Perry Senior Citizens Services, a group that delivers meals and offers transportation to elderly residents.

"We are able operate on a very small budget. So a big gift from the mayor like this is very significant for us," said the organization's executive director, Jamie Riedeman.

She said that among other things, Thoman's donation will be used to reimburse volunteers for their mileage. Volunteers said the gift will give a peace of mind to those they serve.

"They'll know there will be more volunteers willing to take their cars and take them to medical appointments and bring them their meals," said Ellen Westenfelder, who delivers meals every Friday. "They'll know it's not going to stop."

Thoman used Friday's announcement to encourage others in the community to give as well. The city has set up a local fundraising campaign called Southport Lives United. Thoman said he wants to raise $25,000 for the United Way between now and Jan. 5.

More Information: City Of Southport Giving Information