Around 100 people from across the county helped kick off the United Way of Franklin County’s annual fundraising campaign Tuesday.
The free family-friendly campaign kickoff at Camp Apex in Shelburne featured a barbecue, tube slide, gaga ball pit, performance by Hilltown Youth and some swimming. It was a departure from past years, when the event was held in more formal settings, but that’s because the United Way decided to welcome children and families, as well, according to Executive Director Kelly Brigham-Steiner.
As the campaign, “Dear Franklin County,” kicks off, Brigham-Steiner said the United Way would like to “raise as much money as possible this year.” She said in past years, a goal was set, but this year the agency just plans to keep going until it raises as much as it can.
“There are so many nonprofits that need a tremendous amount of resources,” she said. “The demand is so high, so we have a goal in mind internally, but we don’t want to limit ourselves as we start the campaign.”
Brigham-Steiner said there is significant need in health, education and finance, when it comes to the people the campaign helps.
“We’re also thinking about new ways we can generate resources this year,” she said.
Last year, the campaign raised $752,000 — $2,000 more than the goal — and $458,960 of that went to programs of 27 partner agencies. According to United Way Treasurer Rose Bache, 85 percent of the money raised goes to programs, 12 percent to administrative costs and 3 percent to fundraising costs.
This year’s campaign chairwoman is Patriciann Pirog, who said it takes a village to support this type of campaign and to be the voice for those who don’t have one.
“We are that voice,” Pirog said. “This is our chance to make a difference.”
During the campaign, people will have the opportunity to write “love letters” to the county — wishes for the community or challenges they believe it needs to overcome.
“The theme shows that we can love our dear Franklin County, while recognizing that there is still a need for our collective support,” Brigham-Steiner said.
Besides the kickoff, the United Way of Franklin County holds several other fundraisers throughout the year, including Blooming Backpacks, Strength in Nachos and the Arts & Leisure Auction Gala, to name a few. It also sponsors an annual diaper drive.
For more information, call 413-772-2168 or visit uw-fc.org.
Reach Anita Fritz at 413-772-0261, ext. 269 or afritz@recorder.com.