01/14/09 - The United Way of Marshall County and Ed Ruiz 2008 campaign chair invite the community to attend a Community Thank You on Friday, February 6, 2009, at Christos' Banquet Center from 6 to 9 p.m.

The Community Thank You event gives the United Way an opportunity to recognize the many volunteer hours contributed toward the 2008 campaign goal. In addition, it provides a chance to thank the many businesses and individuals who donated.

Campaign cabinet members will receive recognition and outstanding contributors to the campaign will receive awards at the Community Thank You. They include #1 Giver (overall largest amount of money contributed), Student Giving, School Faculty/Staff Giving (education awards are based on per capita giving), and Bremen Large Industry and Small Industry (also based on per capita giving).

Both silent and live auctions will take place to help achieve the goal. Silent auction items generously donated by local businesses and individuals can be viewed beginning at 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. The live auction will kick off at 7 p.m. after the recognition program at 6:30 p.m. A 5-day/4-night vacation donated by Oliver Ford, a Maxinkuckee cruise on Culver Academies' Ledbetter, and sports memorabilia are among the auction items. The community is welcome to contribute an item for the auction-just call the United Way to make arrangements. Hors de 'oeuvres will be provided and a cash bar will be available.

At the conclusion of the evening, Ed Ruiz 2008 campaign chair, will hand the reins over to Francis Ellert, 2009 campaign chair.

The United Way of Marshall County advances the common good by focusing on the building blocks to a good life: income, education, and health. When we reach out a hand to one, we influence the condition of all. That's what it means to Live United.

To attend, please RSVP the United Way office at (574) 936-3366 or email info@marshallcountyuw.org by February 2, 2009. For more information contact Jennifer S. Maddox, Executive Director at (574) 935-3366.