On Friday, August 18th, 2023, United Way of the CSRA staff and board members, along with local business leaders and community volunteers, joined together to kick off the 2023 annual fundraising campaign. This year’s campaign theme “Together, We Can!” is a simple, yet powerful phrase that speaks volume to the power of uniting and working together to have a greater impact in our community. Over the next seven months, groups will work towards meeting the fundraising goal of $2,500,000 to support the most pressing needs in our community. Last year, United Way of the CSRA impacted the lives of 251,290 local individuals through its support of 31 programs at 19 local nonprofits.

Immediately following the kickoff event, more than 350 volunteers provided an estimated 1,400 hours of volunteer service at 24 different project sites. Volunteer projects included beautifying spaces at Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts, feeding neighbors in need at Master’s Table, landscaping at Salvation Army, and much more! Incorporating Project Serve into the Campaign Kickoff event helps start the campaign off on a strong note by having an immediate impact on local nonprofits.

United Way of the CSRA President and CEO, Brittany Burnett, stated “Individually, we can only do so much, but when we all give what we can to United Way of the CSRA, every dollar stays right here to help ensure that everyone has the resources they need to achieve their maximum potential. We know that when our whole community comes together, we can – and we will – make the biggest impact.”

2023 Board Chair, Jay Johnson, provided a motivating message about making a change in our community. “With your time and your dollars, you are helping to move the needle on the issues that are most critical in our community. The past few years have been challenging for all of us in various ways, but with your continued commitment, we will be the ones to help keep our community safe, strong, and thriving,” Johnson stated.

This year’s kickoff event was sponsored by Savannah River Nuclear Solutions, Doctors Hospital, Aurubis, Southern Nuclear Operating Company, Publix Super Markets Charities, Georgia Power, and Blanchard and Calhoun.