Effingham, Illinois – The past few months have brought great success for the United Way of Effingham County in their efforts to raise funds for 20 local partner agencies. Multiple events have been held from September – November that the community came together and benefited this organization.

September 1, 2023 the Annual Jennings Labor Day Party was held at the home of Dr. Ryan & Sara Jennings. Entry was given in trade for a donation to the United Way of Effingham County. Attendees enjoyed a delicious taco bar, entertainment from area band Backroad Boogie and an excellent fireworks show. This event raised just under $10,000 for the United Way of Effingham County. A special thanks to Dr. Ryan & Sara Jennings, Neil, Stephanie, Ciara and Brianna Taylor, Jeff Frey, Ben Frey, Chad Arnold, Noah Jones, Max Hardiek, Jack Jennings and Dana Donsbach for making the event possible.

The month of October brought the Annual United Way of Effingham County Witches Ball. The event was held on October 20th at the Keller Convention Center. A night full of spooky fun was had by all. The night consisted of a live and silent auction, raffle prizes, costume contest, dinner, music and much more. In all, the event raised $41,007 for the United Way of Effingham County. Special thanks to Patty Greene and the Keller Convention Center, Bierman DJ Services, Oh Snap PhotoBooth Rental, Trent Schmid with Schmid Auction, Elec Trek, Lisa’s Pastry Sensations, Agracel, Inc., Koerner Distributor, Inc., the United Way of Effingham County Board of Directors and all of the VIP Sponsors.

Local businesses also held fundraisers during the month of October to benefit United Way of Effingham County. Niemerg’s Steakhouse held their annual Chicken To Go Promotion for the entire month of October. Any chicken to go meal that was purchased raised $1 for United Way. This fundraiser brought $2,800. Joe’s Pizza & Pasta also held their Joe’s Froze Promotion during the month of October. Funds were donated for every Joe’s Froze pizza sold at certain locations throughout the month. This fundraiser raised $1,000 for United Way.

The United Way of Effingham County could not be more grateful for our giving community and always coming together to support those in need. Funds raised during the 2023 Campaign will benefit 20 local partner agencies who provide health and human services within Effingham County. For more information on this organization or to donate, call the United Way office at (217) 342-3824 or visit www.effinghamunitedway.org.
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