More than 300 people rallied for food, fun and a midpoint campaign fundraising report at Monterey Square on Wednesday on behalf of United Way of the Coastal Empire.
The campaign so far has raised more than $3.7 million, about 42 percent of its eventual goal of $8,888,888, officials said.
“This is our highest goal and we’re hopeful that we can get there,” said Greg Schroeder, president of United Way of the Coastal Empire. “Today we have over 300 people which is a record crowd. Special thanks to South University and their president Todd Cellini for bringing two busloads of students and special thanks to Jenny Gentry who’s leading the way as Wonder Woman in many wonderful ways.”
Schroeder said this year’s unique numerical goal was created at the beginning of the campaign before it began on Sept. 4 to support the needs of Chatham and the surrounding counties of Bryan, Effingham and Liberty.
“We’re hopeful that we can achieve that amount because the community needs it and there are more people that need it than ever before,” Schroeder said.
United Way of the Coastal Empire, which began in 1938, collaborates with 59 agencies that perform a variety of human service programs. More than 100 programs are funded by United Way in the community.
Campaign chair Jenny Gentry, adorned in a Wonder Woman outfit, introduced the loaned associates, companies and organizations that have helped sponsor this year’s campaign.
“So far this year we’ve seen some really amazing results,” Gentry told the crowd. “The company campaigns are coming in at record totals. … It’s been so rewarding for me to personally see what good work is being done in the community.”
“We’re off to a great start but there’s still a lot of work to be done,” said Gentry, Savannah market president for Wells Fargo and a 25-year United Way volunteer. “A big thanks to everything that the loaned associates have done. I’m thrilled at where we are, but we have six more weeks to go.”
Gentry urged the crowd to get more involved in helping United Way reach its goal.
“Today is really all about creating energy and continuing to inspire people to reach out into the community,” Gentry said. “We want people to create awareness and go ask their neighbors or friends or companies to continue to give back.”
ON THE WEB
To make a donation to United Way of the Coastal Empire or to learn more about the organization, go to www.uwce.org.