Area Wide United Way to celebrate 50 years

The Area Wide United Way will kick off their 50th anniversary celebration at their annual meeting at 11:30 a.m. Friday at the Drury Lodge in Cape Girardeau.

A special announcement regarding the organization will be made at the event. Key leaders in the organization will be recognized and the fourth annual Spirit of Giving awards will be presented.

The Spirit of Giving award is given to an individual in the community who has shown a strong commitment to the mission of the United Way through their contribution of time and financial resources.

The Spirit of Community award is given to a company in the community that has been a leader in supporting the work of the United Way and been an active member of the community in promoting its health and well being.

The Spirit of Caring award is given to a United Way funded agency that promotes, supports, and embraces the work of the United Way and has partnered with the organization to promote the quality of life in our community.

More than 100 local businessmen, campaign volunteers, and agency representatives will attend.

Jeff Cunningham of KFVS-TV12 will emcee the event.

In addition, the media and retiring board members will be recognized, along with Bob Basler, past treasurer, and Don Fisher, 2003 campaign chairman.

A special video presentation of the past 50 years will be shown.

For more information, please contact the Area Wide United Way office at 334-9634.