FARMINGTON — The public is invited to join the United Way of the Tri-Valley as it formally kicks off this year’s fundraising campaign from 11 a.m to 2 p.m.Thursday, Sept. 9, in Meetinghouse Park.

The campaign launch features live music by Arizona Rose and the Achords, free refreshments provided by ARAMARK Higher Education, giveaways, a “Live United” photo opportunity and a chance to speak with community partners about the impact they have on the region.

Those attending are also encouraged to bring nonperishable food items to the celebration. The collected food will be distributed to area food pantries.

Volunteer Dennis O’Neil will lead this year’s annual fundraising campaign.

O’Neil, who has a background in finance, recently retired to the area to be closer to Rangeley, where his wife grew up. He is now volunteering in a variety of capacities after a 45-year career, which included working in the family construction business; serving in municipal government as an assessor, treasurer and tax collector; teaching; and serving as a bank vice president.

O’Neil has extensive United Way experience, having served for six years on the board of the United Way of Westborough, Mass., two of those as president. 

He now belongs to the Farmington Rotary Club, where he is treasurer, and is active in St. Joseph’s Church, Titcomb Mountain Ski Club, the Franklin Volunteer Network, Mt. Blue Regional School District volunteer programs and Literacy Volunteers. When not volunteering for programs and projects that make a difference, Dennis spends time with his five children and 11 grandchildren, who all live in New England.

“The United Way is very fortunate to have experienced community members like Dennis O’Neil lead the United Way’s fundraising efforts each year. Dennis, and other dedicated community members who form the Campaign Cabinet, will bring experience and energy to the campaign and help the United Way reach its goal of improving 12,000 lives,” said Lisa Laflin, executive director of the United Way of the Tri-Valley Area.

Last year, community support of the campaign allowed the United Way of the Tri-Valley Area to allocate funds to 18 programs that are coordinated by 17 community partners, who provide valuable health and social services in Greater Franklin County.

Programs include outreach and assistance to homeless adolescents through New Beginnings, the Meals on Wheels Program coordinated by SeniorsPlus, school-based sexual assault prevention and support programs conducted by Sexual Assault and Victims Emergency Services and disaster services provided to victims of fire or other natural disasters by the American Red Cross.

In case of severe weather, Thursday’s celebration will take place in the North Dining Hall of the Student Center on the campus of the University of Maine at Farmington.