Staff report

SALISBURY — The Rowan County United Way board of directors has adopted a goal of $1,478,000 for its 2017 campaign, which kicks off at a noon meeting Sept. 6 at the Hurley Family YMCA.

This year’s theme is “Better Together. Giving. Working. Growing,” with campaign leaders emphasizing the spirit of working together to achieve a healthier community.

County Manager Aaron Church and City Manager Lane Bailey are co-chairmen of the fall fundraising campaign that involves hundreds of volunteers throughout the county. The funds are distributed to 16 local human services agencies approved by the United Way.

“We look forward to a strong giving campaign in 2017,” said Bailey, calling it an honor to serve as co-chairman of the campaign. “Both Aaron and I recognize the importance of United Way agencies and the part they play in our residents’ everyday lives, including during times of crisis.

“Organizations such as the YMCA and the American Red Cross provide invaluable assistance to our diverse communities throughout Rowan County.”

Church said he is looking forward to working with the campaign cabinet, Bailey and the volunteers. “There are lots of needs, and the money stays local,” he said.

Other fall events include the Sunset Run, 6-9 p.m. Sept. 1 in downtown Salisbury; Day of Caring, 7:30 a.m. Sept. 14, Salisbury YMCA; First Report, noon Sept. 27, Ben Mynatt; Second Report, noon Oct. 11, Gerry Wood; Third Report, Oct. 25, Team Chevrolet; Belk Charity Event, 6-9 p.m. Oct. 29; and the finale, noon Nov. 15, Hurley Family YMCA.

The Rowan County United Way was chartered in 1956. The 16-member agencies include the Rowan County Literacy Council, The Arc/Rowan, Rowan Vocational Opportunities, Boy Scouts, Central NC Council; Communities in Schools of Rowan County, Rowan County YMCA, Rowan County Youth Services Bureau, American Red Cross, Rowan County Rescue Squad, Salvation Army, Trinity Living Center, Rufty-Holmes Senior Center, Meals on Wheels, Families First Inc., Family Crisis Council and Smart Start Rowan.

For more information, visit the website www.rowanunitedway.org or follow the United Way on Facebook.