United Way kicks off its 85th Campaign with a Fundación MAPFRE Donation and Pub Quiz

United Way of South Central Massachusetts welcomed over 150 supporters at its annual Campaign Kickoff with a dinner and a night of trivia with their “Sharpest Knife in Block” Pub Quiz sponsored by Dexter-Russell, Inc. on Friday, October 21st at the Southbridge Hotel and Conference Center. 

Campaign Chairman Denise Gorski addressed the guests with her many years of experience of supporting United Way through workplace giving, being a member of United Way boards and now being the Campaign Chair celebrating this local United Way’s 85th Anniversary serving the towns of South Central Massachusetts. 

Ms. Gorski stated “MOVING FORWARD TOGETHER” is this year’s theme.  As we recover from the pandemic and financial insecurity many are facing, we want to be there and help the neighbors in our five towns move forward toward receiving the assistance they need.  As we start our 2022 Campaign with a goal of $584,000, it is important that we support the United Way in its mission of providing funding for 26 health, education and financial stability programs that address the needs of the youngest to oldest persons in our communities.”

“With the generous support of local companies and their willingness to hold workplace campaigns, along with our individual donors,” Ms. Gorski continued, “we can achieve this goal and be able to help 1 in 4 people in the towns of Charlton, Dudley, Southbridge, Sturbridge and Webster.” 

Fundación MAPFRE has been a valued corporate partner for many years and provided a grant of $67,200 (70,000 EU) that will be used to support programs that address food insecurity, childcare and elder services in South County. “We are proud to partner with United Way of South Central Massachusetts in its mission to improve lives and uplift those in need,” said Jaime Tamayo, chief representative of Fundación MAPFRE in the United States and CEO of MAPFRE Insurance. “The services they provide are critical and show the important role organizations like United Way play in creating a brighter future for our communities.”

UWSCM Executive Director, Mary O’Coin, stated “Our donors are the lifeline for so many in the community.  Our corporate partners, such as Fundación MAPFRE and all the individuals who make gifts to the United Way of South Central MA make a difference to all.  Giving a hand up by providing access to affordable childcare, mental health resources, housing and utility assistance will make our community stronger.   Workplace campaigns are starting now and residents should be receiving a mailer soon.  Donating is easy by visiting the www.uwscm.org to donate online, using a pledge form or directly through a credit card or check.”

The evening continued with the highly anticipated annual PUB QUIZ sponsored by Dexter-Russell, Inc.  DJ Bruce Marshall of WARE 97.7 FM was the MC for the evening.  Thirty teams competed for the highly coveted “Sharpest Knife in the Block” trophy.  This year was a real nail biter, very competitive with a double tiebreaker to determine the winner.  Team BAY STATE MAULERS beat LET’S GET QUIZZICAL for the top prize.  Team RUTH BADER WINSBURG won best team name.   All funds raised through team fees and raffles benefit the United Way campaign and supports all member agency programs.

The United Way of South Central Massachusetts serves the communities of Charlton, Dudley, Southbridge, Sturbridge and Webster and is located at 176 Main St., Suite 400, Southbridge, MA 01550.  To learn more about programs and donate, visit www.uwscm.org, follow on Facebook @UWSCM or call (508) 765-5491.