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United Ways throughout the region have launched their annual campaigns.
Each of our local United Way organizations provides an important service to the region by helping to gather funding and resources to programs and agencies which help to improve the lives of all of Tri-State Area residents.
In a time when a growing number of residents are having to watch money more closely, the work of the women and men serving the United Ways becomes even more important, as does reaching the fundraising goals the organizations have established. All of that money raised goes to help numerous agencies provide needed services.
And, while a simple donation always is appreciated, there are other ways area residents can show their support.
The United Way of the Upper Ohio Valley, which now includes Hancock and Brooke counties in its service area, has opened its campaign as well, beginning with a Jackpot Jubilee on Sept. 4 at Wheeling Island Hotel, Casino and Racetrack. That was followed by the official kickoff on Sept. 6 that included ceremonies held as part of pre-game activities before West Liberty's football game against Seton Hill.
That campaign is being led by Executive Director Staci Stephen.
The United Way of Jefferson County, for instance, is on its way toward meeting its campaign goal of $325,000. This year's campaign officially began on Aug. 28, when volunteers and supporters gathered at the JeffCo Event Center for this year's Day of Action. Steubenville Mayor Jerry Barilla was the honoree during the breakfast, and after a short presentation, volunteers spread out across the country to help complete projects at nonprofit agencies.
This year's campaign will be the first for Executive Director Marci Crawford, who joined the agency in July. She is being assisted by board President Ted Gorman and a corps of volunteers in asking local residents and businesses for their help.
A couple of important events are coming up -- the first is Sept. 20, when the fifth-annual Suzanne Kresser Memorial 5K Run/Walk/1K will be held in Steubenville's Jim Wood Park. The event is held in the memory of Kresser, a longtime executive director of the United Way who was involved in numerous activities and events throughout the area until she died of cancer in 2021 at the age of 51.
And, then on Oct. 8, the 29th-annual Taste of Jefferson County will be held at the St. Florian Event Center in Wintersville. A much-anticipated event, attendees will have the chance to sample offerings from numerous restaurants, caterers and bakeries, as well as buy chances on numerous prizes, with all proceeds going to the United Way.
Area United Ways serve many agencies that help improve the quality of life across the region. Some provide food for the hungry, some a place to stay for the homeless and some shelter from violence. Others help families and individuals in distress and some work to make area residents healthier.
While the focus of their work differs, each agency has a common goal -- to make a difference in the lives of your friends and neighbors.
And, the hope is that everyone will remember an important tenant of the United Way: Money raised here stays here. You can be sure that your donations will go to benefit member agencies and ensure they can continue their important work.
Make it a point to support your local United Way -- doing so will help to make our region a better place to live and work.