United Way member agencies are gearing up for this year’s major fundraising campaign, during which they hope to raise $825,000 to support various helping agencies and programs throughout Flathead County.
To help kick off the event, member agencies will set up displays from throughout the Flathead Valley in the Kalispell Center Mall from Oct. 13 through Oct. 20.
There’s a full schedule of family friendly events set for Saturday, Oct. 16 as well. Here’s a breakdown:
On Saturday, Oct. 16, there will be entertainment, face painting, balloons will be offered and clowns will be on hand to interact with children of all ages throughout the day.
A full schedule of entertainment is planned for Saturday, Oct. 16 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Here is the schedule for Saturday entertainment at the J.C.Penney court:
11 a.m. to noon — Guitar Soloist Joe Procita
noon to 1 p.m. — Northwest Montana Accordian Association
1 to 2 p.m. — RSVP Calamity Singers
2 to 2:45 p.m. — RSVP Sunshine Chorus
2:45 to 3:30 — RSVP Kitchen Band of the Flathead Valley
3:30 to 4 p.m. — Big Sky Fiddlers
Any donations made during this year’s campaign, themed “Listen to Your Heart,” go toward United Way member agencies and services in the Flathead, which serve thousands of local families and individuals.
Last year, United Way agencies helped 46,000 people in need, and United Way reports that 99 percent of all funds raised stay in the local community.
A recurring theme of the campaign is encouraging community residents to “be involved, be passionate and be generous” to improve the lives of everyone in the Valley, meeting the everyday needs of everyday people. The United Way has a variety of suggestions for ways that people can improve the world around them. “Join hands, open your heart, lend your muscle, find your voice” are just a few of the ideas for touching a life.
Donations benefit United Way Member Agencies and services in Flathead County, serving thousands of local individuals and families with a variety of needs. The United Way also provides community resources including the annual Answer Book, a counseling directory, the Montana 211 project and a Volunteer Center.
For more information, call 752-7266 or toll free at 888-720-7266.