Red Cross hits $85,465 for Heroes Campaign
By Becky Barclay
Published in News on April 24, 2009 1:46 PM
Wayne County residents did not let a tough economic year keep them from raising $85,465 for the local chapter of the American Red Cross.
The goal for the 2009 Heroes Campaign was $95,000, officials said at the campaign wrap-up luncheon Thursday.
Executive director Chuck Waller said the campaign was not as much about raising money, but helping people who, most of the time, don't know they're going to need help.
A "hero" is a person or group or business that raises $1,000 or more for the Red Cross.
Several groups and individuals received recognition awards during the luncheon.
Local schools participated in Pennies for a Purpose, decorating huge water jugs and collecting pennies through various means such as fundraisers, passing the jug, competitions and even an idol competition.
Brogden Primary, Eastern Wayne High School and North Drive Elementary, which was new to the campaign this year, each raised at least $1,000.
The Blue Knights motorcycle club, Brodgen Primary, Outback Steakhouse and Ram Rent All were recognized for participating in the Heroes Campaign five or more years.
Winners of the jug decorating contest were Eastern Wayne Middle and Brogden Primary.
For the first time, a special Centurion Award went to Wes Waller and George Whitfield, organizers of the annual sports memorabilia auction, which raised $20,100 this year. The auction has become the cornerstone of the Heroes Campaign.
Samia Garner, director of development, presented a list of the events for the Heroes Campaign and how much each raised. They included concessions at special events, $2,000; sports auction, $20,100; Ride for the Red, $6,787; Dining to Donate and Friends 'n Neighbors events, $1,500; Pennies for a Purpose, $10,890; and a tennis tournament, $5,000.