The countdown has begun and the details are being firmed up as the Oct. 17 and 18 United Way Telethon edges closer.
The fundraising activities begin in earnest on Friday, Oct. 17 at 8 a.m. with the opening ceremonies in front of the Access Communication cameras. They will end on Oct. 18 at 5 p.m.
UW president Doug McDavid is extending a warm welcome to all.
Organizers of the televised 33-hour marathon are hoping to raise $340,000 this year within this period of time. The action gets heavy at various times during the event, especially at the telethon headquarters in the Estevan Legion Hall.
This year's theme is Community Starts With You. Each October since 1977, the United Way board, volunteers and community at large have come together to successfully reach the annual targeted goal. Thanks are extended to the general population, local businesses and organizations for their generosity during this frantic period and for all the hours put into the effort prior to the telethon and after the lights are dimmed on the official broadcast.
The telethon will again showcase local talent and groups that include schools, seniors, churches, choirs and social organizations who are part of the local and regional culture.
Laura Bjarnason, administrator for the UW, noted there are still some openings for entertainers who might be interested in giving the telethon some of their time and talent. Those who might be interested are asked to contact her at [email protected] or phone 306-634-7375.
The UW Estevan telethon is organized by a number of committees made up of board members and volunteers. The committees include banking, entertainment, facilities, food services, history, phones and cameras, public relations, production, security and raffle.
United Way Estevan is grateful to all who have stepped forward to participate and perform those various duties and encourages all individuals or groups interested in assisting these committees to contact Bjarnason at the office. Volunteers represent a wide range of people working together to raise funds for the 17 member agencies and projects supported by this event. UW supports not only the member agencies but also the Hillcrest School Breakfast Club and the Day of Caring.
A complete list of the member agencies is provided on the website unitedwayestevan.com It is a registered charity with 24 volunteer board members.
"We are still in need of bid items for the auction at the telethon," said Bjarnason. "If you are willing to donate a home made item for the fundraiser please contact Wendy at 306-421-7124, Christa at 306-461-9465 or Elizabeth Pinel at 306-421-2030.
"Please come out and join in the fun and excitement. Volunteer or visit us live and enjoy the entertainment and on-site concession. United Way Estevan thanks you for your past support and looks forward to working together with you for another great Telethon," McDavid and Bjarnason said in a release issued this past week.
