FARMINGTON – Join the United Way of the Tri-Valley as it formally kicks off this year’s campaign on Thursday, Sept. 9, at Meetinghouse Park in Farmington from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. (In case of severe weather, the event will take place in the North Dining Hall at UMF.)
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To celebrate the campaign launch, there will be live music by Arizona Rose and the Achords; free food generously provided by ARAMARK Higher Education; give-aways; a LIVE UNITED photo opportunity, and a chance to speak with Community Partners about the impact they have on the region. Participants are also encouraged to bring non-perishable food items to the celebration. Food that is collected will be distributed to area food pantries.
The United Way of the Tri-Valley Area is pleased to announce that this year’s Annual fundraising Campaign will be led by an extraordinarily dedicated volunteer, Dennis O’Neil. Dennis, who has a background in finance, recently retired to the area to be closer to Rangeley, where his wife grew up. He is now volunteering in a variety of capacities after a long and successful 45-year career, which included working in the family construction business; serving various capacities in municipal government as an assessor, treasurer, and tax collector; teaching; and serving as a bank vice president.
Dennis O’Neil has extensive United Way experience, having served for six years on the Board of the United Way of Westborough, MA, two of those as president. His civic engagement has been considerable over the years, and now extends into many areas of Greater Franklin County. Dennis belongs to the Farmington Rotary Club, where he is treasurer, and is active in St. Joseph’s Church, Titcomb Mtn. Ski Club, the Franklin Volunteer Network, Mt. Blue Regional School District volunteer programs, and Literacy Volunteers. When not volunteering for programs and projects that make a difference, Dennis spends time with his five children and 11 grandchildren who all live in New England.
Lisa Laflin, executive director of the United Way of the Tri-Valley Area said, “The United Way is very fortunate to have experienced community members like Dennis O’Neil lead the United Way’s fundraising efforts each year. Dennis, and other dedicated community members who form the Campaign Cabinet, will bring experience and energy to the Campaign and help the United Way reach its goal of improving 12,000 lives.”
Last year community support of the campaign allowed the United Way of the Tri-Valley Area to allocate funds to 18 programs that are coordinated by 17 Community Partners who provide valuable health and social services in Greater Franklin County. Programs include outreach and assistance to homeless adolescents through New Beginnings; the Meals on Wheels Program coordinated by SeniorsPlus; school-based sexual assault prevention and support programs conducted by SAVES (Sexual Assault and Victims Emergency Services); and disaster services provided to victims of fire or other natural disasters by the American Red Cross.
