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Pacesetters Turn Up Heat To Kick Off Annual Campaign

An increase of seven percent in Pacesetter giving helped United Way of Roanoke Valley start the 2007 Community Campaign with $901,492 in early contributions.

“I hope that all the campaigns yet to run can do at least that well,” said Campaign Chair Mike Coppola. He spoke to a crowd of more than 200 supporters at the Salem Memorial Baseball Stadium on August 30, launching the annual drive for support from more than 450 area businesses and hundreds of individuals to help meet local human needs.

Coppola said this year’s campaign theme, “Without you, there’s no Way,” is a reminder that working together yields greater results. He noted, “We need you to join us in helping people today and improving the Roanoke Valley for tomorrow. Because together, we get results that no one can achieve alone.”

Campaign leaders are out to exceed last year’s total of $6.3 million, which was an increase of $100,000 from 2005. Coppola said, “If each one of our current donors could secure just one new donor, giving just one dollar a day, we could raise another $9 million.”

United Way Board Chair Kathy Graves Stockburger welcomed guests, noting they are keeping alive “an 83-year-old tradition of neighbors helping neighbors in the Roanoke Valley. This is your opportunity to participate in making the Roanoke Valley a better place,” she said.

Guests were treated to a picnic lunch furnished by Kroger as emcee David Page from the Q99 Breakfast Club led the festivities. Other event sponsors were the City of Salem and Salem Avalanche staff. Advance Auto Parts was honored during the program for six years as Pacesetter Camapign Sponsor.