The United Way of Washington County 2012 Campaign is underway. Thanks to the players, coaches, cheerleaders, administration and student council members of Marietta and Warren High Schools for their efforts in helping us jump start our 2012 campaign by participating in a highly successful First Annual "United Way of Washington County Bowl" featuring the Marietta and Warren football teams.
This event marked the kick-off of our annual campaign to raise funds for our 18 organizations serving Washington County residents of all ages.
The "Live United" Bowl accomplished several objectives. First and most importantly, young people, including athletes, student council leaders, and cheerleaders became involved and aware of United Way and the importance of giving back to the community. Secondly, fans at the event contributed over $1700 to begin our drive to reach our goal of $266,000 in order to provide our participating agencies the support requested and, finally, the fans attending the game saw sixteen (16) different agencies parade before the game in a demonstration of the diversity of organizations and people served by United Way of Washington County.
The "Live United" Bowl was made possible by community minded school administrators and coaches. When United Way of Washington County Board Member Al Miller approached school staff with the idea of using the great athletic rivalry between Warren and Marietta High Schools as a way to promote both sportsmanship and United Way goals, school principals Bill Lee of Marietta and Dan Leffingwell of Warren responded enthusiastically. The Marietta and Warren athletes, coaches, and cheerleaders got together for a Thursday evening pre-game dinner. 500 "Live United" Bowl t-shirts were donated for the event by BSN Sports. Amrine Awards and Apparel donated both the game trophy and fan appreciation trophies for the contest. Christy and Associates provided a generous $200 donation in support of the event. The Warren Athletic Booster donated their $376 share of the "Split The Pot" proceeds to the campaign.
In the coming weeks, we hope that you will take the opportunity to visit our website at www.washingtoncountyuw.net and look at our 2012 campaign brochure. Here you will find a complete listing of organizations supported by United Way of Washington County and a description of the work that they do on behalf of Washington County citizens. We also ask that you visit our Facebook page and friend us at UnitedWayofWashingtonCounty(MariettaOhio).
We encourage you to contribute to our campaign at a level that your finances allows. We can accept contributions through payroll deduction, cash, checks, and credit cards. Finally, our Board of Directors seeks your involvement in the 2012 campaign. We know that your involvement is crucial in helping us reach our goals. You can volunteer involved by calling the United Way office at (740) 373-3333. We look forward to a successful 2012 campaign and your support.
Gary L. Williams,
Campaign Chair
United Way of Washington County
