Lights, camera, action! The United Way of the Coastal Empire is shining a spotlight for the 2027 Community Fund Campaign kickoff

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) - Hundreds gathered at the Savannah Convention Center for the 2027 Community Fund Campaign kickoff.

Money raised for the Community Fund goes toward the organization’s two focus areas: safety net and upward mobility.

“We know that they are being disconnected the growth that’s happening so shining a spotlight on our community can invest our resources together collectively to make a huge impact. It’s really where we’re going so we’re gonna do this year,” said Kimberly Waller, president and CEO of the United Way of the Coastal Empire.

“Those are really are two focused areas but there’s so many underneath and safety and upward mobility so we’re talking about that we’re talking like food security housing affordability housing stability,” Waller said.

The United Way of the Coastal Empire set a base goal of $5 million this year. The organization is aiming to beat last year’s total of $5.2 million raised.

The United Way of the Coastal Empire and supporting businesses have already raised more than $800,000 toward this year’s goal.

“When you have a community that cares as deeply as this one does, you’ve got people who are gonna champion you we’re gonna make it that your goals are possible and that’s really against shining a spotlight on all of those opportunities,” Waller said.

Campaign organizers hope the community will join them in shining a spotlight on those in need during this year’s fundraising campaign.

In addition to the luncheon, the United Way of the Coastal Empire awarded the Craig Harney Award, named after a veteran WTOC operations manager who focused on making the community a better place.