UNITED WAY HOSTS A “JUNGLE ESCAPE”

Augusta, GA – United Way of the Central Savannah River Area entertained almost 600 guests today at the Campaign Kickoff luncheon held at Bell Auditorium.  This fun event with a ‘Jungle Escape’ theme was presented through the generosity of Savannah River Banking Company, Georgia Power, Procter & Gamble Manufacturing Company, and Southern Nuclear Operating Company.  Meredith Anderson and Richard Rogers, News Anchors with WRDW TV News 12, presided over the event. 

Amidst a backdrop of palm trees, monkeys, jungle sounds, and an occasional Tarzan yell, Mr. Not Gaddy and friends from IDRUM2U were on hand to help set the mood with native drum music.  Dancers from Augusta West Performing Company, under the direction of Ms. Megan Luquire, entertained guests with a lively “Bamboo Banga” dance routine.  Two lucky guests were the proud recipients of gift baskets donated by Georgia Aquarium, Riverbanks Zoo, and United Way’s Board of Directors.  Mayor Deke Copenhaver presented a Proclamation to Ms. LaVerne Gold, President/CEO of United Way, naming this “United Way Day” in Augusta. 

Mr. Jerry Schneider, Director of Savannah River Nuclear Solutions (SRNS) – Economic Diversification, was keynote speaker for the luncheon.  He shared details of exciting events that are happening at the site and the impact it will have on the local community.  He also announced that SRNS will be giving a corporate match of up to $200,000 to local United Ways.

Dr. Michael Ash, 2009 Campaign Chair, announced United Way’s 2009 campaign goal of $4.4 million.  He challenged everyone to consider giving back to the community through their support of United Way, and asked everyone to talk to their friends, neighbors, and co-workers and encourage them to give.  Dr. Ash said, “It takes everyone working together to succeed.  United Way’s success is not just a dollar figure, it’s the countless number of lives that will be touched next year by a community working together.” 

Dr. Ash also introduced the 2009 Loaned Professionals who are on loan from local businesses and will be working with United Way for the next 11 weeks helping to run campaigns throughout the community.  This year’s Loaned Professionals include:  Ms. Debbie Caver, U.S. Department of Energy; Mr. Patrick Eskridge, Intern, Augusta State University; Mr. Joe Kelley, Savannah River Nuclear Solutions; Mr. Larry Laughlin, Sponsored by Georgia Bank & Trust Company; Mr. Harry Moore, Georgia Power; and Ms. Dyanna Nelsen, Combined Federal Campaign.

Eight companies were recognized for running Pacesetter Campaigns this year, campaigns which are launched prior to the Kickoff:  American Red Cross of Augusta, Palmetto GBA, Sam’s Club, Morgan Stanley Smith Barney, United Way of the CSRA, United Way of the CSRA Board of Directors, United Parcel Service, and Walmart Stores, Inc. 

The festive event entertained over 600 guests, which included community and business leaders, local civic club members, health and human service agencies, government officials, and representatives from many CSRA businesses.

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