Local United Way asking residents ‘Who dunnit?'
By KRISTIN TAYLOR
Staff Writer
United Way of Murray-Calloway County is asking people “Who dunnit?”
In a role-playing masquerade event, seven homes will host themed parties in an attempt to raise money for United Way's annual campaign. Like a game of Clue, the gatherings will give people a chance to socialize while dropping hints and wearing costumes that maybe help fellow party-goers solve the murder mystery.
United Way campaign chairman Doug Lawson said the goal is to have 20 people at each of the seven houses. People can participate as couples, individuals or groups.
“We're trying to generate excitement and get United Way's name out there,” Lawson said.
“We have so many things we do that are regimented year after year. This adds a different flavor to it. We hope it will help our campaign.”
All the parties are Saturday evening, Oct. 21, with most running from 7 to 9 p.m. Anyone interested in participating should call the United Way office at 753-0317 by Wednesday.
The organization is supplying the food, format and themed party packages, such as celebrity, beach or country-western. The hosts open their homes and add their touch to the parties.
Participants will get information on their character in time to prepare. They'll disclose information through the course of the night and then the party concludes with a vote.
The fund-raising portion of the night depends on contributions.
“Each host home will carry the United Way flag. If we can get everyone who participates to give $50, we could have a significant fund-raiser,” Lawson said. “But will everyone be able to give that? We don't know. That's up to each person and what's in their heart.”
In addition to the contributions, party-goers can also sign pledge cards if they'd rather make a donation over the course of the year. The hosts also will promote the levels of giving that bring donors recognition when the campaign with a $315,000 goal concludes in the spring.
United Way is the umbrella agency for 11 community organizations. All of the money raised stays to benefit those local groups.
Larger local industries often support the United Way through payroll deductions and other large-scale efforts. But Lawson is hoping the murder mystery party will inspire others to get involved.
“What this party was designed to do is focus on those small businesses that might not be part of a corporate campaign,” Lawson said. “Anyone is welcome, but we are hoping to get other people involved if they haven't been before.”
Story created Oct 14, 2006 - 00:13:17 EDT.
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