Local business representatives and volunteers came out to support United Way of Montgomery, Radford and Floyd at their annual Campaign Kick-Off Luncheon at the German Club Manor in Blacksburg on Thursday, Sept. 28.
United Way’s Campaign Kick-Off marks the beginning of the United Way fundraising season each year. At the event, guests celebrated a new year of making an impact throughout the New River Valley, and were motivated by inspiring speeches.
Guests enjoyed lunch provided by Outback Steakhouse. Virginia Tech football players Brandon Facyson, Aiden Brown, Oscar Bradburn and volleyball players Stacey Christy, Kelly Esch and Kai Young were also in attendance signing autographs.
United Way’s President of the Board of Directors, Adam Alexander, begun the Kick-Off event with an introduction and welcome. Kymn Davidson-Hamley, United Way’s Executive Director, shared opening remarks about what it means to LIVE UNITED in our community, and introduced keynote speaker Dr. Michael Larkin.
Dr. Larkin has served as a police officer in Los Angeles, a YMCA executive, in the church as an associate pastor, at Foursquare Missions International as the director of missions, and currently at Life Pacific College in Christiansburg as the CEO/ Founder as well as a full time and adjunct professor.
Larkin shared about the history of United Way, and from his personal experience about the importance of planting seeds in the community with a vision for the ultimate outcome. He talked about being in the right place at the right time and to serve when called upon, and how we need people now, more than ever, to rise up and work together to make a difference at the local level.
Life Pacific College’s students serve 5-10 hours in the community weekly, consistently and quietly making an impact throughout the New River Valley and beyond, embodying what it means to LIVE UNITED. “Dr. Larkin’s comments were well-received and timely for the audience today, as we strive to inspire others to create positive change in our community this year.” Rachel Pearson, Development and Public Relations Manager at United Way, stated.
United Way of Montgomery, Radford and Floyd’s mission is to unite local people and resources to improve lives in the New River Valley. United Way and its partner agencies identify needs and address them with the collective generosity of local people and local companies. Company campaigns and special fundraisers have begun in the New River Valley.
For more information visit United Way of Montgomery, Radford and Floyd’s website at www.unitedwaynrv.org, or contact the office at info@unitedwaynrv.org or 540-381-2066.
