While the event was a fun way to kick off the campaign, the speakers acknowledged the challenges of today's economy and shared a sense of hope that together, we will raise $8.5 million to ensure that programs remain in place for those in need.

 

"Many local people are dealing with challenges and struggles that cannot be overcome without the critical work that United Way programs and initiatives provide to our community," Steve said.  "The United Way Campaign represents an opportunity for each of us to take a role in shaping our community and its future."

 

In addition to pumping up the crowd and delivering the message that our community is stronger when we LIVE UNITED, Kickoff was also an oppotunity to thank our sponsors, donors, agency partners and volunteers, all of whom play a crucial role in our ability to advance the common good.

 

With just over $2 million raised to date, the Schumachers are confident that we will achieve, and hopefully exceed, our goal.  "We ask you to never lose sight that the funds raised help local children, families and senior citizens every day," they said.  "United, we will make the difference in the lives of more than 100,000 local people.  

 

Kickoff was followed by the 2009 Day of Caring (see story below).  We are grateful to National Penn for sponsoring the day's activities.

 

This year, more than 320 individuals participated in 52 projects, including United Way's Stuff the Bus drive to collect school supplies for children in need.  Along with the traditional Day of Caring activities, many of the projects centered around United Way's focus area of education.  This special focus gave volunteers the opportunity to work in child care centers and schools, doing everything from painting murals alongside students to building gardens. 

 

To learn more about volunteer engagement in our community, click here, or email Sharon Mast, Director of Volunteer Engagement at United Way.

Baseball Fantasy Day at the Reading Phillies gave teams of four the opportunity participate in a daylong batting challenge accompanied by other activities, exciting giveaways, and a meet-and-greet with R-Phils Hall of Famer Ricky Bottalico.  That evening, the teams were invited back to a special gathering in the pool pavilion, where everyone enjoyed the game and the R-Phils auctioned off unique experiences at the ballpark.  The event raised more than $16,000.

 

At the Yuasa Battery 5th Annual Right From The Start Criterium, amateur bike racers from all over the mid-atlantic region sped through the streets of Laureldale to raise money for United Way's early learning intiative.  The daylong event featured activites for children, great food, and a greyhound rescue.  New this year was the addition of a motorcycle poker run organized by the Latin American Motorcycle Association (LAMA).  Proceeds from the poker run will also be used to benefit the early learning initiative.

 

We are grateful to the R-Phils, Yuasa Battery, Inc. and LAMA for their efforts in helping to create lasting change in our community.

 

Want to be part of United Way's online photo album?  Send photos of your company's United Way activities to Jessica Heil at United Way.

Berkshire Mall

November 7

11 a.m. to 3 p.m. 

 

Victory Celebration
Inn at Reading

November 19

Registration: 5:15 p.m.
Program: 6 p.m.

 

United Way Night at the Reading Royals
Sovereign Center

December 5

7:05 p.m.