Aiken County, September 13, 2025
News Summary
The United Way of Aiken County has commenced its fundraising campaign themed around Super Mario, aiming to raise over $2 million to support critical community programs. Chaired by Chris Bryant, the campaign focuses on addressing issues such as food assistance and education for children. The kickoff event featured local officials and a vibrant atmosphere, encouraging community involvement in philanthropy. With a fundraising goal of $2,001,463, the initiative seeks to strengthen local resources and foster a united effort to tackle pressing needs in Aiken County.
Aiken Launches Super Mario Fundraising Campaign for 2025
The United Way of Aiken County officially kicked off its 2025-26 fundraising year on August 29, 2025, at an event held at the Aiken County Family YMCA in Graniteville. The campaign theme, inspired by the beloved video game character Super Mario, aims to motivate the community to “level up” their philanthropic contributions. The fundraising goal is set at $2,001,463, which will support over 40 critical need programs in the community.
Campaign Leaders and Goals
This year’s campaign is chaired by Chris Bryant, while Heather Raynack serves as the president of the United Way of Aiken County as well as the board chair. The funds raised through this initiative are essential for a variety of programs addressing pressing issues such as food assistance, educational tools for children, and medication assistance for the elderly.
Event Highlights
The kickoff event was marked by lively costumes, with Chris Bryant appearing as Mario, Heather Raynack as Princess Peach, and Ethan Guidry as Luigi. The event encompassed an agency fair that allowed attendees to interact with representatives from 18 of the United Way’s 29 partner agencies. Local officials, including Aiken Mayor Teddy Milner, City Manager Stuart Bedenbaugh, and State Representative Charlie Hartz, were present to acknowledge the positive local impact of the United Way.
Financial Overview
Last year’s fundraising efforts generated an impressive $2,415,081, highlighting the community’s commitment to supporting local initiatives. This year’s campaign aims to tackle issues such as affordable housing, hunger, financial insecurity, and chronic medical conditions affecting residents.
Ellen Luton emphasized this year’s fundraising initiative’s importance, as it ensures that local programs can continue to operate effectively. The event infused a high-energy atmosphere designed to engage community support for the cause. Attendees enjoyed clear, partly cloudy weather, with temperatures reaching a comfortable high of 83°F and a low of 58°F.
Conclusion
The United Way of Aiken County’s Super Mario-themed fundraising campaign represents a community-driven effort to address vital needs within Aiken County. By setting a clear financial goal and engaging local officials and residents, the initiative hopes to foster a united front in tackling the challenges faced by many in the area.
FAQ
What is the United Way of Aiken County’s fundraising goal for 2025-26?
The goal is $2,001,463.
Where did the campaign kickoff event take place?
The event took place at the Aiken County Family YMCA in Graniteville.
What themes were featured during the kickoff event?
The theme of the campaign is Super Mario, aimed at inspiring community members to increase their contributions.
What issues does the funding aim to address?
The funds will support programs related to food assistance, educational tools for children, and medication assistance for the elderly, among other priorities.
Who were some notable attendees at the event?
Notable attendees included Aiken Mayor Teddy Milner, City Manager Stuart Bedenbaugh, and State Representative Charlie Hartz.
Key Features of the Campaign
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Theme | Super Mario |
| Fundraising Goal | $2,001,463 |
| Key Programs Supported | Food assistance, educational tools, medication assistance |
| Notable Attendees | Aiken Mayor Teddy Milner, City Manager Stuart Bedenbaugh, S.C. Rep. Charlie Hartz |
| Previous Year Fundraising | $2,415,081 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
United Way of Aiken County Launches 2025 Fundraising Campaign
Aiken city council updates: Budget changes affecting local nonprofits
Aiken County Faces Meals on Wheels Funding Crisis
Aiken high school football schedule: Non-conference tests and a strategic bye week
Augusta Launches 33rd Annual “It’s Spooky to Be Hungry®” Drive
University of South Carolina Aiken Appoints New Vice Chancellor
Kamala Harris Bows Out of California Governor Race
University of South Carolina Aiken Appoints New Vice Chancellor
California Governor Rallies South Carolina Democrats
Aiken Senior Life Services Launches Ambassador Program
Additional Resources
- Post and Courier: United Way Kicks Off 2025-26 Fundraising Year
- The State: Local News Article
- Augusta Press: Graniteville Textile Plant
- WRDW: Bridgestone Plant Marks 25 Years
- Post and Courier: HCA Students Free Lunches
- Wikipedia: Super Mario
- Google Search: United Way Aiken County
- Google Scholar: Nonprofit Fundraising Campaigns
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Philanthropy
- Google News: United Way of Aiken County
Author: STAFF HERE AIKEN
The AIKEN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAiken.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Aiken, Aiken County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Aiken Horse Show, Aiken Bluegrass Festival, and polo matches at Whitney Field. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Aiken Chamber of Commerce and the Aiken County Historical Museum, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and tourism that power the local economy such as Bridgestone and the Aiken County Visitors Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
