The United Fund of Atmore kicked off its 2011 fundraising campaign Thursday afternoon with a reception at the GECA Theatre, which featured refreshments, entertainment and a live auction.

Kickoff chairperson Lee Ann Allen said the event was a success although the board had hoped for more participation from the community.

“The turnout was good, but definitely could have been better,” she said Friday afternoon. “We were hoping for more community participation at the kickoff.”

Although numbers were lower than expected for the kickoff, Allen estimates $1,000 was raised through a $300 raffle and live auction.

“That’s a solid start for us,” she said.

Allen added that those on hand at the kickoff spoke highly of the entire event.

“I have had nothing but positive comments,” she said. “Everyone seemed to like the venue and the event. I think the venue was awesome!  What gracious hosts.  The entertainment gave the attendees a chance to see what GECA is about as well as learn a little more about United Fund.”

The goal for this year’s campaign is $50,000, which is lower than last year. Bernard Bishop, United Fund president, said that the goal has not been reached for several years so the decision was made to lower the goal and make it more attainable.

“Our goal for 2011 is $50,000,” Bishop said. “This figure is down from last year and previous years. We had to make some adjustments because we have lost a major donor. We are calling the community into action. We need donations for this campaign.”

With the loss of major contributors such as the Neal Trust, board members are tasked with thinking outside of the box for fundraising.

“We are working on more creative ways to raise money,” Allen said. “More awareness is going to be key, so we will definitely need the support of our local media outlets. We will be visiting local businesses along with agency representatives to make the community aware of what their donated dollars do for their neighbors.”

Agencies that benefit from funds raised through the United Fund campaign are the American Red Cross, Atmore Area Christian Care Ministries, Atmore Babe Ruth Baseball, Atmore Cal Ripken/Bambino Baseball, Atmore Girls Softball, Atmore Pee Wee Football, Atmore Public Library, Atmore T-ball, Concerned Citizens of Atmore, Council on Aging, Dr. Bernard Bishop Ministries, Escambia County Cooperative Library, Friends of Education of Escambia County, GECA, Goodwill Easter Seals, Hospitality House Ministry, Progressive Civic and Recreational Club, Youth Leadership Atmore and Atmore Area YMCA.

Representatives with each organization had the opportunity to address those on hand and express how much United Fund contributions mean to their organization as well as giving details to how the funds are spent.

In addition, members of GECA performed a scene from its current play, “Arsenic and Old Lace,” which hold its final performance at 7 p.m. tonight, Saturday, Sept. 25.

The board would like to extend a special thanks to GECA for hosting the event.  Thanks to United Bank, Regions and First National Bank and Trust for donating the funds for our cash prize raffle. Thanks to Gulf Winds FCU, Myrna Monroe and Pat Hetzel for providing the refreshments. Thanks to Coley’s Petals and Parties, Atmore Flower Shop, Godwin’s Florist and Sherry’s Elegant Flowers for providing the floral arrangements.  Thanks to Central Farm Supply for providing the Alabama/Auburn wind flags for our auction.  Thanks to all of our board members for their hard work and dedication to making the event a success.  Thanks to the Chamber of Commerce for keeping us on their heads up calendar and for all they do for the community.