Graniteville, South Carolina, September 1, 2025
News Summary
The United Way of Aiken County has kicked off its 2025 fundraising campaign at a lively event inspired by Super Mario. With a goal of $2,001,463, community members gathered to support local initiatives. Dressed as Mario and Princess Peach, the Campaign and Board Chairs encouraged donations to address critical needs in the community. The campaign involves 29 partner agencies and aims to fund over 40 essential programs assisting those facing challenges such as affordable housing and health issues.
Graniteville, South Carolina – The United Way of Aiken County has launched its 2025 fundraising campaign with a creatively themed kickoff event inspired by the popular video game franchise, Super Mario. The event took place on August 29, 2025, at the Aiken County Family YMCA, gathering community members and local organizations to launch an ambitious fundraising goal of $2,001,463.
Chris Bryant, the Campaign Chair, and Heather Raynack, the Board Chair, added a festive flair to the event by attending in costume as Mario and Princess Peach. This fun and engaging theme aimed to inspire attendees to contribute generously toward the community’s needs.
A total of 29 partner agencies are involved in the United Way’s efforts this year, with 18 of these agencies participating in a fair during the kickoff. This fair provided local organizations an opportunity to discuss their missions and the vital work they do in the community. The funds raised from this campaign will support over 40 critical need programs addressing pressing issues faced by Aiken County residents.
Among the prominent issues addressed through the funds include affordable housing, hunger, financial insecurity, mental health concerns, transportation challenges, and chronic medical conditions. The United Way is committed to enhancing the quality of life for all residents by providing essential services such as food supplies, educational tools for children, and medication assistance for the elderly.
In the previous year, the United Way of Aiken County raised $2,415,081 in its 2024 campaign, setting a high bar for this year’s ambitious target. The kickoff event not only focused on fundraising but also featured a community volunteer initiative, where local residents and organizations assisted in displaying the fundraising goals.
Ellen Luton, the United Way president and chief professional officer, highlighted the significance of an entertaining theme to spark enthusiasm and donations among attendees. The community’s response during the event demonstrated the widespread support for the United Way’s mission and its role in addressing local challenges.
Mayor Teddy Milner of Aiken acknowledged the United Way’s positive impact on the community, reflecting on the organization’s history of effecting meaningful change across Aiken County. The event served not only as a fundraising effort but also as an opportunity to unite community members around a common goal: improving the lives of those in need.
The United Way of Aiken County continues to play a crucial role in supporting community service initiatives, and the success of the 2025 campaign will be essential in sustaining and expanding its efforts. As the campaign progresses, community members and businesses are encouraged to contribute, ensuring that the United Way can adequately respond to and address the critical needs of Aiken County residents.
FAQ
What is the fundraising goal for the United Way of Aiken County’s 2025 campaign?
The fundraising goal for the 2025 campaign is $2,001,463.
When was the kickoff event for the fundraising campaign held?
The kickoff event took place on August 29, 2025.
What issues does the United Way of Aiken County aim to address?
The United Way aims to address issues related to affordable housing, hunger, financial insecurity, mental health concerns, transportation challenges, and chronic medical conditions.
How many partner agencies are involved in the 2025 campaign?
There are 29 partner agencies involved in the campaign.
What types of programs will the raised funds support?
The funds raised will support over 40 critical need programs, including providing food, educational tools for children, and medication assistance for the elderly.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Aiken County Family YMCA, Graniteville, SC |
| Kickoff Event Date | August 29, 2025 |
| Fundraising Goal | $2,001,463 |
| Campaign Chair | Chris Bryant (as Mario) |
| Board Chair | Heather Raynack (as Princess Peach) |
| Partner Agencies | 29 total, with 18 at the fair |
| Programs Supported | Food assistance, educational tools, medication assistance |
| Previous Year Fundraising Total | $2,415,081 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Augusta Launches 33rd Annual “It’s Spooky to Be Hungry®” Drive
Additional Resources
- United Way of Aiken County Launches 2025 Fundraising Campaign
- Wikipedia: United Way
- Aiken County Bridgestone Plant Marks 25 Years of Operation
- Google Search: Bridgestone Plant Aiken County
- Nickey’s Ice Cream in Aiken County
- Google Scholar: Nickey’s Ice Cream Aiken
- Bridgestone Aiken Plant Marks 25 Years of Operation
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Bridgestone
- Day of Caring: United Way Volunteers in Aiken County
- Google News: United Way Aiken
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