The United Way of Richland County launched its 93rd annual campaign Wednesday morning with the support of several volunteers, companies, and friends, who gathered together to celebrate the Day of Caring held at South Park in Mansfield.
A drum roll prefaced the announcement of the 2013 campaign goal, this year reaching new heights at $1,650,000, which is $50,000 more than the previous year.
“While our campaign has changed over the years, our vision has not,” stated the United Way Executive Director, Bob Maxey.
To help meet this fundraising effort, several pacesetter companies have agreed to “set the pace,” by raising 42% of the overall goal, $690,366.
Earlier this year, the United Way held three different fundraisers, and the proceeds also benefit the 2013 campaign goal. The AFL-CIO golf outing raised $6,000; the 2nd Annual Power of the Purse raised $6,214, and the Graham Automall car show raised $2,434.
From 1950 – 2012, the United Way raised $74 million for its partner agencies. “This would not be possible without community-life support,” said Maxey.
The United Way Board of Trustees President, Kristie Massa, discussed the significance of the Day of Caring and stated that volunteering at the several partner agency sites is “truly the heart of United Way.” She stated, “You [the volunteers] are going to meet some angels on earth and have the opportunity to see where these funds are going.”
Approximately 20 employees of Richland Bank were among those who volunteered their time at the Day of Caring. They offered assistance at the Harmony House in downtown Mansfield where they helped with painting projects.
Richland Bank has had employees volunteer at the partner agency sites for over 20 years. “We have a rotation of employees who want to come out and help year after year,” stated Massa.
She added, “Volunteering is core to who Richland Bank is. It’s part of our culture.”
Before the volunteers departed to their project sites, Maxey encouraged everyone by noting that this is the third year for the United Way to raise its campaign goal, and for the past two years, the organization has been able to surpass its goals.
As a way of showing their intent of keeping the tradition of surpassing its campaign goal alive, together everyone chanted, “Three in a row, here we go.”
To donate, go to http://unitedwayofrichlandcounty.org/DONATE.php.
