United Way Sets $450,001 Goal for 2023 Campaign
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The United Way of Toombs, Montgomery, and Wheeler Counties kicked off its annual fundraising campaign on Thursday, September 15, with a tailgate-themed luncheon at the Vidalia First Baptist Church.
Campaign Chair for 2023 Jordan Robins and Cochair Natasha Goss informed attendees that the goal for the fundraising campaign is $450,001, 36% of which the community Pacesetters have already raised.
These Pacesetters include DOT Foods, Toombs County Schools, Vidalia City Schools, United Way Golf Tournament, Chicken of the Sea, Memorial Health Meadows Hospital, and Dancing for the Stars. These groups have already raised a total of $162,035, and will continue fundraising through the remainder of the campaign.
This year’s campaign theme is “A League of Our Own,” which is a play on the popu- continued from page
lar film, “A League of Their Own.” “It is instead ‘A League of Our Own’ because with your help, we can champion our community,” Robins remarked.
Testimonies were given by individuals who had been referred for assistance by the Paul Anderson Youth Home and The Refuge, two of the charities that have benefitted through donations to United Way. The individuals praised the organizations for the aid that changed their lives for the better. “Both of these speakers are not from this area, but they came because of the services we can offer. How special is that? They both value this community and they both spoke about how their experience was coming from somewhere else. I think that speaks volumes,” Robins commented.
The event also featured cheerleaders, color guard, and marching band members from local schools, such as Vidalia Heritage Academy, Vidalia High School, and Toombs County High School, who set the tone for the event with upbeat cheers and music.
United Way of Toombs, Montgomery, and Wheeler Executive Director Patricia Dixon reflected on the event. “We had close to 200 people to attend the kick-off luncheon. We live in the best community [with] people who have a heart for others who are hurting. My heart is so full. I am so blessed to work with each and every one of you.”
She continued, “There is not one day that someone is not helped by our United Way agencies. Every day, all year, lives are touched because you care. Thank you for your support.
The campaign will continue to raise money throughout the coming weeks. To find out more information on the local United Way, or to donate, call (912) 537-2776.
