HARLINGEN — The enthusiasm and excitement in the room said it all.
The North Cameron County United Way 2019 campaign held its kickoff and awards luncheon Wednesday.
Area community leaders from Cameron County were there to show their support and appreciation to the local United Way that helps many area organizations fund their programs.
Ernest Ezpinoza, field director with the Rio Grande Council Boy Scouts of America, was there.
As he mingled with the crowd, he typed away on his iPhone confirming his next appointment to organize Boy Scout troops in the Valley.
Harlingen and San Benito school district superintendents Art Cavazos and Nate Carmen got to know each other while they chatted about the upcoming school year and the United Way.
Also among the crowd of leaders was Cameron County Sherriff Omar Lucio greeting every one and enjoying the lunch ceremony.
United Way of Northern Cameron County hosted its annual kick off luncheon at Frankie Flav’z restaurant in Harlingen.
“The luncheon was not only to celebrate a new campaign year, but to also honor last year’s donors,” said Jessica Belschner, North Cameron County United Way, executive director.
They handed out the Giving Excellence Award for their contributions to the United Way to Magic Valley Electric Cooperative, City of San Benito, Marine Military Academy and Rio Grande Valley Credit Union.
Their Outstanding Workplace Campaigns awards went to H-E-B and Harlingen CISD.
Representatives from each organization were there to receive the honors.
Belschner said last year the North Cameron County United Way raised $420,000 and this year they are looking to top that mark.
The 150 people in attendance were challenged to help their community by joining the United Way movement.
“We get a check from them every month and we always have,” said Bill Reagan, Loaves and Fishes executive director. “It’s a substantial part of our budget.”
He said the United Way’s collaborations with the many organizations make the community stronger.
“Our friends in the United Way are leaders in the community and personal friends of mine,” Reagan said. “The collaboration we have between Loaves and Fishes and the United Way is just one of those important ties and links in the community.”
United Way of Northern Cameron County currently funds 16 local community partners and initiatives.
Last year, United Way of Northern Cameron County celebrated its 65th anniversary. In those 65 years, the organization has allocated more than $12 million back to the community.
“We are giving hope to the hopeless,” said Missy Morrow, United Way of North Cameron County board president. “Will you join the fight with me, and my fellow board members? Will you help us by volunteering your time?”
