Although only three months into the campaign, United Way of Richland County has a lot to be excited about. Specifically, United Way’s 2013 campaign goal of $1,650,000 is currently at $926,936.
Executive Director Bob Maxey noted that never before has United Way raised this much money at this early of a stage in the campaign.
“We thought when we raised $700,000 last year at this time that that number was great, and so we’re very pleased with how the campaign is coming along this year,” said Maxey.
Members of the local community convened at The Ohio State University Mansfield (OSU-M) and North Central State College (NCSC) Campus to recognize the success of the campaign at the Mid-Campaign Breakfast on Thursday morning. Approximately 240 people were in attendance.
OSU-M Dean and Director Dr. Steve Gavazzi and NCSC President Dr. Dorey Diab served as the keynote speakers.
Additionally, Job and Family Services employees performed their own rendition of “Dance the Night Away,” naming their performance, “Dance the United Way.”
Additionally, Col. Gary McCue of the 179th Airlift Wing was awarded the 2nd Annual United Community Award.
In reference to the breakfast, Maxey stated, “It was another example of Richland County’s generosity and their willingness to step up and support the cause.”
Looking ahead, United Way is partnering with the Richland Mall to host a holiday-themed event called 12 Days of Christmas. This event will begin on December 1 and end on December 12. The proceeds will benefit United Way.
Those wanting to participate need to purchase a $1 game card at the Richland Mall Customer Service desk. United Way Community Outreach Coordinator April Hedrick said, “It’s like a scavenger hunt in the mall.”
Participants have to search the Richland Mall to find all of the “icons” that are listed on the game card. Once the items are found, the participant’s name will be placed in a drawing, which will be held on Dec. 13. The winner will receive a $500 Richland Mall gift card.
Also on tap for United Way’s lineup is a new program beginning next year called the Real Life Community Gardens. Through this program, eligible candidates are able to operate their own garden for their personal use. The mission is to produce nutritious food, help reduce family food budgets, and create opportunities for recreation, exercise and education.
Enrollment to participate in the program will run from January 15 through March 15.
Real Life Church has donated a plot of land in Madison for a community garden. Town and Country Co-Op are donating the materials needed to start a garden.
To be eligible to participate, candidates need to be within 200 percent of the poverty level and have a paystub or documentation of assistances from Job and Family Services.
Qualified candidates will receive a 25 foot by 25 foot plot of land and “Get Started and Grow” starter kit, which includes a bucket, trowel, gloves, hoe and tomato stake. They must also attend the Gardening 101 class and adhere to the “Agreement of Responsibility” contract.
For more information regarding upcoming United Way events and campaign progress, or to donate, go to http://unitedwayofrichlandcounty.org/.
