SALISBURY – The Rowan County United Way will begin its campaign with a host of activities taking place on Friday during the BB&T Sunset Run and Downtown Salisbury Inc.’s Kids Night Out.
“The United Way kickoff is a great way to get started on our campaign,” said Campaign Chair Denise Hallett.
Hallett said volunteers feel good about this year’s campaign and the kickoff event.
“It’s a great way to come together and celebrate as we get ready to start the campaign. It’s a fun evening,” Hallett said.
The previous year’s campaign ended with the community and business contributions exceeding the goal and raising more than $1.7 million.
The night’s activities start at 5:30 p.m. with a performance by The Right To Party Band, formerly The Kays at the Farmer’s Market parking lot.
The annual soapbox derby will take place at 6:30 p.m. There will also be free games for children as well as Bingo and face painting. The local Kiwanis Club will provide food for at the event.
Participants who still need to register for the BB&T Sunset Run race can do so from 6 p.m.-7:45 p.m. at the Meroney Theatre in the 200 block of South Main Street.
The Sunset Run begins at 8 p.m. on East Fisher Street near the intersection with South Lee Street. The Kids Fun Run begins at 7:30 p.m. Members of the East Rowan Cross Country team will act as “pacesetters” for the Kids Fun Run. A couple of members from the cross country team will lead runners in the race so that runners stay on the course. Other cross country members will also mark the route along the course.
There will be pony rides for children and inflatable bounce houses at the event.
“We are hoping for a great turnout. There are lots of activities planned. I think it will be a fun family night out,” said Michelle Patterson.
Patterson, who has been a campaign cabinet member and campaign volunteer for a number of years said she hopes everyone can attend.
The Kids Night Out, a free event is sponsored by Downtown Salisbury Inc. The event will take place in downtown Salisbury from 5:30-9 p.m. There will be lots of activities for children, entertainment and live music around downtown. The area shops will also be open late.Contact reporter Shavonne Potts at 704-797-4253.