By Bobby Tingle

The Orange Leader

 

United Way of Orange County responded in a big way when tropical storm Harvey flooded our homes and businesses.

“United Way went into overdrive after Harvey,” said International Paper Mill Manager Ed Barr. “Lots of money came into Orange County through United Way. There is lots of evidence why our involvement and support of their work is worthwhile.”

Barr will serve as the 2019 campaign director, but he was quick to stress the importance of the entire United Way Board, the many volunteers and individual contributors who make the United Way successful.

United Way kicked off the 2018 campaign just five days prior to the catastrophic flooding from Harvey. In spite of this major, United Way was able to reach their campaign goal.

They hope to do the same this year.

Dean Granger trotted to the podium to cajole attendees to participate in the Granger Chevrolet 5K, which has raised as much at $15,000 for United Way.

“If you can’t run, then walk or crawl,” said Granger as he encouraged the audience. “It is a happening deal and with your participation we can beat our prior fundraising record.”

You can register for the event at runsignup.com/Race/TX/Orange/Granger5K.

United Way President and CEO Maureen McAllister will provide supplies for area campaign leaders to run a successful drive at their work place. She will be offering training and will host weekly lunches in October where she will give updates for the 2019 campaign.

McAllister thanked First Financial Bank for sponsoring the campaign kickoff breakfast, Camp Fire for preparing breakfast and First Presbyterian Church for making their gym available for the event.

For more information you can go to unitedwayorangecounty.org, their office at 1506 W. Park or call at 409-883-3591.