United Way of Mid-Maine Celebrates Community Generosity
United Way of Mid-Maine hosted nearly a hundred community volunteers and business people Tuesday evening at the Waterville Elks Club to celebrate the 2012/2013 fundraising campaign.
United Way’s Board Chair, Melissa Higgins of Northeast Laboratory Services, kicked off the evening by expressing gratitude for the community’s support. “We gather tonight at a time when the programs that the United Way helps fund are needed more than ever. With the changing of seasons, the long days and cold nights, come expanded need for the services that we fund and offer”.
Campaign Co-Chair Debbie Byrne shared the highlights of the campaign season which included the first annual beer and wine tasting fundraiser event held at Veilleux’s Funeral Home and hosted by owners TJ and Kerry Smart. Also showcased was the “Prize Patrol” which included United Way of Mid-Maine staff and volunteers who surprised Maria Cusick, the winner of Grand Prize Trip valued at $3000 and sponsored by Bangor Savings Bank, and Diane Hartwell – the winner of a flatscreen TV donated by Fortin’s Home Furnishings.
United Way of Mid-Maine relies on worksite campaigns, corporate donations, and individual contributions to meet its annual fundraising goal. Tina Chapman, President and Chief Professional Officer described the impact that donations of money and time have on the community. “Your generosity has a tremendous and long-lasting impact on our community and our neighbors who are less fortunate than we are. You may not have the benefit of seeing the direct result of your actions, but your gifts of caring are every bit as real. For all of the lives you’ve touched - thank you.”
Each year United Way honors outstanding businesses that show a high level of commitment and success with their fundraising campaigns. The George R. Keller Award was presented to Inland Hospital, the Diamond Club Award was presented to Danny and Jane Bolduc, and Campaign Excellence Awards were presented to The Children’s Center, MaineGeneral, Moose River Lumber, Redington-Fairview General Hospital, and Winslow Community Federal Credit Union.
Members of the 2012/2013 United Way of Mid-Maine Campaign Cabinet were honored as well - Mike & Debbie Byrne, Century 21 Surette, Campaign Co-Chairs, Jeremiah Anderson – Alcom, Michael Barrett – United Way of Mid-Maine Board Member, Jane Bolduc – Century 21 Land & Lakes, Danny Bolduc – Higgins & Bolduc, George Coleman – United Way of Mid-Maine Board Member, Dr. Barbara Covey – MaineGeneral, Alan Duplessis– Jackman Business Leader, Chris Gaunce – Central Maine Motors, Kevin Joseph—Joseph’s Market, Cory King – Skowhegan Chamber of Commerce, Sheryl Milliard – Retired, Kerry Smart—Veilleux Funeral Home, Karen Van Orman—Sappi Fine Paper, Tracy Warren—Kennebec Savings Bank and Barbara Woodlee—KVCC.
The evening was topped off with musical entertainment provided by Michael Reny.