"Live United," the annual United Way of Barton County campaign, will kick-off with a Great Bend Chamber of Commerce after-hours event at 5 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 23, at the Best Western Courtyard, 2920 10th Street, Great Bend. At 4 p.m., local youth will present their community award posters.
As temperatures start to dip as autumn nears, there will be one thermometer Julie Bogner-Smith wants to see climb.
At 1 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 21, the large, plywood United Way fund-raising gauge will go up near the fountain in downtown Great Bend’s Jack Kilby Square as the 2011 United Way of Barton County campaign nears its opening, said Smith, United Way of Barton County executive director.
With the theme "Live United," the annual UWBC drive will kick-off with a Great Bend Chamber of Commerce after-hours event at 5 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 23, at the Best Western courtyard, 2920 10th Street, Great Bend. Prior to that, however, at 4 p.m., local youth will present their community award posters.
Smith said attendees will also hear campaign details and view a video. Drinks and snacks will also be available.
It’s an opportunity, she said, to learn more about the 19 agencies funded by UWBC. Agency directors will be on hand to discuss services being provided in the community.
"We want everyone to know they can come," Smith said. "We want the whole community to be there."
She also wants to emphasize that the campaign it is a county-wide party and wants all Barton County residents to know they are invited.
The 2011 Campaign Goal has been set at $225,000, with 99 percent of the funds remaining in Barton County. Jim and Kathi Armatys are the 2011 co-chairs.
"The United Way of Barton County Board of Directors extends our deepest appreciation to you for your generous support of past campaigns," Smith said, addressing past donors. "We realize the support you have given our agencies has provided a variety of services to residents of all ages and made it possible to improve our quality of life. You have the ability to continue your support through your gifts to the United Way."
"It is our hope to continue providing assistance through our agencies to those in need including families, individuals, elderly, and children." Smith said. "By encouraging a better today, we bring a better tomorrow. Your ongoing commitment will ensure that, together, we will continue to make our community an even greater place to live."
