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The United Way of
Garrett County’s Food, Foolishness and Fun pasta dinner
held on March 31st at the St. Peter Apostle parish hall
was a huge success. John MacGowan, one of the
coordinators of the event reported that over 200 persons
were served pasta dinners and premium desserts by
waiters and waitresses dressed as cowboys, pirates,
jesters, hula girls, Batman, a constable and other wacky
attire. Twelve different non-profit community agencies
participated by selling tickets, serving guests and
bussing tables. The event raised over $2,700 for the
United Way community campaign and an additional $1,015
that went directly to community agencies through ticket
sales and tips.
The kitchen and
serving staff came from Brenda’s Pizzeria and the Four
Seasons Dining Room at the Will’O the Wisp. Food was
donated by community restaurants, grocers and food
suppliers. Many of the costumes were provided by Our
Town Theatre. Bob Stephens a United Way volunteer said
“the economy is really hurting a lot of charities but
it's really exciting to see the local businesses provide
food for the dinner. I just can’t say enough
about the hard work of Brenda McDonald from Brenda’s and
Wendy Friend from the Will’ O the Wisp. Not only did
they volunteer their time and food, they also had many
of their staff come help. We couldn’t have had the
event without them. I really encourage our community to
support our local businesses because they really came
through for United Way.”
The United Way of Garrett County raises funds to assist
local human service agencies provide programs that
improve the quality of life in Garrett County. Each
year agencies provide proposals to United Way for
projects that are in need of support in order to achieve
their mission. Some of the projects that requested
funding this year include Community Action’s Meals on
Wheels and short term medication program and Habitat
for Humanity's home building projects. Other programs
seeking support include volunteer training and support
for Boy Scout and Girl Scout leaders, disaster
assistance and blood drive support through American Red
Cross, the summer school program at Salem Children’s
Trust and financial support for Mt. Glade Adult Day care
participants. Garrett Mentors is the newest United Way
agency, providing mentoring service for children similar
to what Big Brothers and Big Sisters did in the past.
The 2009 campaign goal for United Way of Garrett County
is $110,000. The United Way campaign ends on April
31st and with the addition of Food, Foolishness and Fun
proceeds the total raised is at just over $108,000.
Individuals and businesses interested in donating to the
United Way campaign can contact their office toll free
at 877-597-2700
to request materials.
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