MANSFIELD — The United Way of Richland County will dash towards its annual goal Friday, Feb 22 with events at Graham Auto Mall and Richland Mall.
The United Way has already raised 90 percent of its $1.425 million goal and hopes to raise the remainder by the end of the day Friday.
“We were able to hit our goal on this day last year, and we want to do everything we can to make it happen again this year,” said executive director, Dan Varn. “We feel like we can rally the community for one last push.”
The United Way will have representatives at the Graham Auto Mall from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and hold its second game of Richlandopoly, organized by Haring Realty, at the Richland Mall from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
At Graham Auto Mall, Varn said, there will be a cash machine, provided by Richland Bank, for use by anyone who makes an in-person donation. Slips of colored paper will be included in the cash machine to represent gift cards, donated by local businesses.
Meanwhile at the mall, eight area businesses and organizations will face off in Haring Realty’s second annual life-sized and localized version of Monopoly. The organization that acquires the most property in two hours wins.
There will also be opportunities for bystanders to participate and win prizes. They’ll be able to occasionally roll the giant dice, can take selfies in the jail cell for $5, and can donate for a chance to win locally-sourced prizes when a player lands on “Chance.”
“The main way people contribute to the United Way is through payroll deductions and that’s not compatible with real estate agents, but they had a strong desire to help,” said Varn. “It’s a great fundraiser, and it’s an exciting time for people to come together and have some fun.”
He said, other United Ways have heard of the event and are impressed. One is coming from southern West Virginia to see the game.
The United Way of Richland County uses the money it raises to fund 47 programs within 18 local, non-profit agencies. These programs focus on four community impact areas: Health Services, Family Services, Emergency Services and Youth Development.
“There are a lot of touch points that the United Way has that some people may not be aware of and it’s because of what we raise in this campaign that we can make a positive difference,” Varn said.
On Friday, for instance, the United Way presented a check for more than $6,000 to the food pantry assistance program.
“Yes, it’s a goal, but because of previous years’ success more people are going to get fed,” Varn said. “It’s people’s lives. Those dollars, they touch, and they have an impact.
Additionally, Varn mentioned that Buffalo Wild Wings is helping the United Way reach its goal with a “Dine and Donate” night. From 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 20, they will donate 20 percent of the day’s proceeds, less alcohol.
“It’s a very generous thing that they’re doing,” Varn said.
