United Way of Southwest Georgia’s “Under the Big Top” annual campaign event returns since 2019

ALBANY, Ga. – The United Way of Southwest Georgia is gearing up for the return of one of their biggest annual events. One that hasn’t been held since 2019.

The annual event, this year titled “Under the Big Top” is the first time the United Way is hosting the kickoff to their end of the year giving campaign since before COVID.

United Way Chapter President, Shaunae Motley says that while they had done it virtually for the last few years, it hasn’t felt the same.

“It means a lot. All of us have been impacted over recent years. But, more so those who ordinarily wouldn’t have had to get help and assistance. So, it means a lot to come together. I’m excited about the generosity of our community and how we will elevate lives together,” said Shaunae Motley, President of United Way of Southwest Georgia.

The campaign will run from Tuesday, the October 24th through December.

For those unfamiliar with the kickoff event in years past, it represents a good way to get in touch with many of the groups who support the United Way, and in turn, support those struggling.

“Our partner agencies will be there, our board members will be facilitating conversations. And, so, it gives you an opportunity to really see the critical role that United Way plays in human services and collaboration throughout our community,” said Motley.

One of the advantages of having the campaign kickoff be in person again is that people can know that the money they donate is wholly going towards the cause.

“…Those dollars go right back into the community. We’re able to provide grants to our local non-profit agencies, and we’re very proud about the fact that we’re able to give 94 cents on the dollar back to our community,” said Motley.

But, more than anything, it’s that human interaction in donating that’s been missing for four years.

“Individuals want to be able to see firsthand where their gifts are going and the impacts they’re making. And, so, through this dialogue and this conversation through speed networking, individuals can see firsthand where those donations are going. And they can be harder to explain that through digital…” said Motley.

As they get set to kick off “Under the Big Top” on Tuesday, the United Way is optimistic about showing people first hand again that their dollars are going to people who need help.

The campaign kickoff will begin at 11 am Tuesday at the Albany Museum of Art and will run until 1 pm.

Brian Roche reporting.

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