Mondee Tilley/The News

Representatives from the United Fund of Surry County’s member agencies listen to a presentation Thursday at Trinity Episcopal Church.

slideshow

At a meeting of the United Fund of Surry County’s member agencies on Thursday, the goal of $515,000 for the 2012-13 campaign was announced.

The campaign will officially kick off on Aug. 18 with the third annual Downtown Rocks and Runs event that will feature The Breakfast Club, an ’80s hair band.

“We’ve got a 5K and a concert. It’s two events in one night. It’s going to be fun. This is the third year and it’s grown every year,” said United Fund’s new Executive Director Beth Pequeno.

She said the band, that is from Atlanta, Ga., was such a hit when it played at Shelton Vineyards, she knew it had to play for United Fund’s kick-off event.

“They were a hit and were immensely entertaining. They have an all ’80s hits play list. They dress the part. They do a great show. I think it’s going to be a lot of fun,” said Pequeno.

This year, the 5K is a US Track and Field (USTAF) certified course. The cost to enter before Aug. 16 is $25. The day of the run, the entrance fee is $30. Those who participate in the 5K, either walking or running, will get free admission to the concert and a T-shirt. Tickets to the concert are $10 for those who do not participate in the race.

Another annual fundraiser for the United Fund, the eighth annual Greater Granite Open golf tournament, will be on Aug. 23 at Cross Creek Country Club.

This year as the United Fund moves forward with its campaign, one of the things that will be different is that people can designate agencies where they want their money to go. Agencies are listed under four different categories: Basic Needs and Emergency Care, Family and Youth Services, Senior Services and Medical Needs.

Under the Basic Needs and Emergency Care title are homeless and domestic violence shelters, rescue squads and emergency-aid agencies such as the American Red Cross and The Salvation Army.

Family and Youth Services includes libraries, the Children’s Center of Surry, special needs programs and Boy and Girl Scout programs.

The Senior Services umbrella includes programs like Meals on Wheels and senior center programs.

Under the Medical Needs category is Surry Medical Ministries and Mountain Valley Hospice.

Pequeno said each agency is guaranteed its annual allotment, but if the donations to their category go over that amount, the agency will receive that amount as well.

Amy Bledsoe with the United Fund explained that by using the new program, they are hoping to increase overall donations.

Also during the meeting, United Fund former executive director Kate Appler, who stepped down July 1, was honored for her service to the agency.

Reach Mondee Tilley at mtilley@heartlandpublications.com or at 719-1930.