The United Way of Fairfield County has helped the community since 1940 – Lancaster Eagle Gazette

Tracy Kelly, Correspondent Published 10:27 a.m. ET Oct. 21, 2020

We rise by lifting others. Robert Ingersoll

The United Way of Fairfield County has tirelessly served local nonprofits, and our most vulnerable community members, since 1940.

From Big Brothers Big Sisters, to Fairfield Center for disAbilities and Cerebral Palsy, from Harcum House to The Lighthouse, the United Way team has been there for those in need.

And now, as its 2020 Campaign unfolds, opportunities abound to return the engagement through service, though generosity, and through awareness.

As a prelude to this years campaign, the United Way offered a modified Community Care Day, featuring roughly 250 community volunteers pursuing acts of kindness.

While the format of the day was changed to recognize the importance of both social distance and social service, the kickoff exceeded expectations, and showcased heart-felt creativity.

I think this year there was even more personal connection because people chose their projects. It felt so good. I was so excited seeing the pictures come through, said Andrea Spires, director of Community Impact.

The same compassion and perseverance are evident among the organizations served by The United Way of Fairfield County, which have continued to thrive amid uncertainty.

And it is on behalf of these 23 local agencies that the United Way is seeking support.

With great need must come great resolve, and the campaign goal for 2020 totals more than $1 million.

With employment down and people hurting, we are trying to reach more of our community, Spires explained.

While several local employers are running internal campaigns to support the United Way, any community member can donate online at http://www.uwayfairfieldco.org/donate, or by texting FairfieldGivesto 41-444.

And the support generated can yield incredible results.

The power of community impact is evidenced in the example of Dolly Parton's Imagination Library. This program, which provides more than3,000 free books each month to local children, has more than tripled its book donation totals in the past year. And a gift of $60 will sponsor a child in the program for an entire year.

But gifts of all sizes make a difference, extending far beyond the awareness of the donor, and shining the light of hope in otherwise dark times.

I really enjoy knowing how much people are doing to make our community better, how giving and caring our community is, Spires affirmed.

For more information about supportingthe United Way of Fairfield County, call 740-653-0643 or email sreed@uwayfairfieldco.org.

Friday, Oct. 23 from 7 p.m. through Sunday, Oct. 25 at 12 a.m., the Fairfield County Infirmary will offer a series of flashlight tours of the 33,000-square-foot, 180-year-old facility. Tickets are $20 each and ages 14 and over only. Bring your own flashlight (no military grade flashlights will be allowed). For more information, visit the Fairfield County Infirmary on Facebook.

Saturday, Oct. 24, from 7 to 9 p.m., join Big Brothers Big Sisters of Fairfield County for the Virtual Dream Big Celebration, on Facebook Live. The event will recognize the volunteers and community supporters who improve the lives of local youth, and will feature a reverse raffle, with a $5,000 prize.Tickets for the raffle are$50. For detailscall 740-697-9477.

Saturday, Oct. 24, from 12 to 10 p.m., the Mill Event Center will host the Back the Blue, Rock the Red: Funding our Frontline Fundraiser. Tickets are $5 at the door with youths 16 and under admitted at no charge. Proceeds will support the Lancaster Fire Department, Fairfield County Sheriff's Department, and Lancaster Police Department in making necessary and life-saving purchases. Event will feature food trucks, family activities, and live music from Nashville recording artist Abby Miller. For details, call 740-777-9200.

Every Tuesday through Nov. 10, from 4:30to 6:30 p.m., AHA! A Hands-On Adventure offers AHA Enrichment!, a hands-on, educational program series for children aged 5 to 8. Themes include science, technology, engineering, art, mathematics, and humanities. Activities will take place at AHA! A Hands-on Adventure, in Lancaster. Registration is $25 per program for members, and $30 for non-members (with a discount for multiple children). For details, email guestservices@aha4kids.org.

Tuesday, Oct. 27, from 4 to 7 p.m., the Baltimore Farmers Market will offer its last market of the season. Stop by for local produce, baked goods, honey, jewelry, and decor at the Ace Hardware in Baltimore. Contact info@baltimoredowntownrestoration.com for information.

Thank you so much for your feedback! Please contact me with information about local events at tkellyfairfieldcounty@gmail.com.

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The United Way of Fairfield County has helped the community since 1940 - Lancaster Eagle Gazette