FARMINGTON — The public is invited to attend the United Way of the Tri-Valley Area’s Campaign Celebration and Annual Meeting on Wednesday, March 20.

It will be held from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. at the Emery Arts Center at the University of Maine at Farmington.

With the support of individuals, corporations, foundations and local businesses, UWTVA has raised more than $390,000 as part of its 2012-13 annual campaign. It has also engaged more than 2,500 volunteers in the effort to improve lives and build a strong and healthy community.

There will be a cash bar, hors d’oeuvres, entertainment and important recognition and remarks provided by Ray Glass, campaign chairman; Kathryn Foster, president of the University of Maine at Farmington; and Kathy Gregory from Community Dental and a member of this year’s fundraising team.

The event is supported by Dead River Co. and Sweet Zinnia’s Photography. Please RSVP to [email protected]. Cost is $15.

At the core of the United Way is its mission to raise money for programs that improve people’s lives. These programs – from food pantries to mental health services – are run by nonprofit organizations that serve Greater Franklin County. UWTVA engaged 23 community members in its annual allocation process this year, during which $155,000 was distributed. In January, 21 program applications were reviewed and 19 hours of interviews were conducted.

This year, UWTVA was also able to award a $10,000 Venture Grant to Community Concepts. Venture Grants go to new and innovative programs that improve people’s lives. The grant enables Community Concepts to launch a Big Brothers, Big Sisters program in Rangeley, and expands the United Way’s funded services in Greater Franklin County.

Lisa Laflin, United Way executive director, stressed that while it is important to celebrate the campaign’s accomplishments, the money that was raised to support area programs and services meets a fraction of the need in Greater Franklin County and support is still critical and accepted year-round.

The United Way was able to meet only a portion of the requests for funding this year, and it continues to seek additional funding to address emerging needs not addressed through the allocations process.