Campaign '10 kicks off 50th anniversary
campaign with free reception and concert

SANFORD, N.C. — With a community reception and free outdoor concert, the United Way of Lee County is poised to celebrate its 50th anniversary and launch its annual fundraising campaign to assist nonprofits working to improve life throughout the area.

The pair of events begins Aug. 5 at 5 p.m. with a Business After Hours reception, sponsored by First Bank and offered in partnership with the Sanford Area Chamber of Commerce, and continues at 7 p.m. with a free concert by the beach music-oldies band RN5P, performing as part of the Function at the Junction summer concert series sponsored by Downtown Sanford Inc.

All events will be held at Depot Park and are open to the public. Reservations are requested for the reception and can be made with the Sanford Area Chamber of Commerce.

This year's annual campaign celebrates the United Way's 50th anniversary in Lee County.

Since being established in 1960 as the United Fund, the United Way of Lee County has raised and distributed millions of dollars over the years to nurture children, enhance self-sufficiency and strengthen families.

Contributions raised during that original campaign were twice the modest, $21,145 goal. Contemporary campaigns raise many times that amount; this year's goal is $450,000.

Money raised during the United Way's annual campaign is allotted by community volunteers to support roughly two dozen partner agencies caring for neighbors throughout Lee County.

Among this year's list are organizations providing emergency food and financial assistance; medical care, housing and child care for low income families; greater opportunities for people with disabilities; and assistance for women escaping domestic abuse.

"It's hard to overestimate how important the United Way has been to our community over the years," says Joe Martin, this year's campaign chair and United Way supporter for more than 15 years. "We see every day how much these contributions mean to people who couldn't get food, shelter or medical care without this help.

"But contributions also have a huge impact beyond those immediate needs. A lot of the groups we helped when they were just starting are now some of the most solid organizations in our community and are helping make Lee County a better place for everyone."

Also serving on the 2010 Campaign Cabinet are Mikeal Basinger, Alexander Cox, Carlos Gomez, Susan Gomez, Tony Guerra, Bob Heuts, Tiffany Jefferson, Bob Joyce, Beth Kelly, Tom McSwain, Margaret Minuth, Margaret Murchison, Bonnie Russell, Sharon Spence, David Spivey and Sam Wornom.

The campaign cabinet also recognizes Bill Lawrence, who agreed before his death earlier this month to assist the campaign as its honorary chairman. A longtime United Way supporter, Lawrence retains his title posthumously in recognition of his tireless, lifelong service throughout the community.

Companies interested in sponsoring their own campaign to help neighbors in need may contact Michele Bullard, program services director, at 919.776.5823 or info@leecountyunitedway.org. Bullard provides materials and assistance, making the entire process easy for business leaders.

The United Way of Lee County has raised and distributed millions of dollars to help nurture children, enhance self-sufficiency and strengthen families. Contributions raised throughout the year, including the fall campaign, are distributed to more than two dozen partner agencies dedicated to improving life for everyone in Lee County.

Media Contacts

Jan Hayes, Executive Director
919.776.5823
janhayes@leecountyunitedway.org