FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

"Community Day" kicks off United Way Campaign

Sidewalk art, live concert, family fun events. Sunday

Chillicothe, OH (September 22, 2009)

A free concert by the Foothills Folk Society will highlight events at “Community Day,” the traditional United Way Campaign kickoff celebration on Sunday, noon to 5 p.m., in Yoctangee Park near the armory and playground.

Also new this year will be opportunities throughout the day for those visiting the event to share with the audience brief examples of how they “Live United” - their personal efforts to give, advocate, and volunteer in our community.  “We are asking folks to tell us how they are reaching out to help others by lending a hand, championing a cause, or contributing to a community organization,” says Liz Corzine, event coordinator and United Way volunteer.

The celebration’s signature event is the annual Sidewalk Chalk Art Contest. Participation is open to individuals and groups of all ages and skill levels – toddlers to boomers, amateurs and professionals. Certificates and ribbons will be given in various categories and a special prize will be awarded for artwork that best depicts the “Live United” theme. Judging the competition are John and Melissa Victor, local artists and graphic designers.

United Way partner agencies will provide games and activities, including:

• Corn hole toss & Red Cross bus – American Red Cross, First Capital District Chapter
• Wheel of Misfortune game – Big Brothers/Big Sisters
• Corn hole games –  Carver Community Center
• Paper hat making – Ross County Community Action
• Parachute games and edible fires – Girl Scouts
• Sumo suits for kids – Altar, Inc.
• Kids’ crafts – Goodwill Industries
• Bubble gum contest – Chillicothe Youth Crime Watch 
• Sand bottles and kids’ banks – Ross County EITC Coalition
• Children’s ID cards – Chillicothe Police and Ross County Coalition Against Domestic Violence

Those who donate $25 or more to the United Way Campaign during the event will receive their choice of a LIVE UNITED t-shirt or shopping bag.

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