NEW BRITAIN — Even before the New Britain Rock Cats first pitch against the Reading Phillies on Wednesday night, New Britain was a winner. Celebrating the community work done in New Britain, a dedicated volunteer and local company were honored at an on-the-field ceremony by United Way of New Britain and Berlin.

Above: Dr. Elsa Núñez, president of Eastern Connecticut State University (center) displays the 2010 Community Service Award, which she accepted Thursday evening, March 31, at United Way of Central and Northeastern Connecticut's 86th Annual Meeting in Hartford. She is flanked by Susan Dunn, United Way's president and CEO, and Jim Sicilian, its board chair.

WINDHAM — Volunteers are needed for Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) sites in Windham and surrounding towns.

The VITA program, which is run by Co-opportunity Inc. in partnership with Windham Region United Way, provides free tax preparation services to lower-income working families and helps them take advantage of tax credits and refunds, including the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC). Last year, VITA volunteers helped bring $1.7 million in federal tax refunds—including $647,000 in EITCs—back to people in the Windham area.

United Way of Central and Northeastern Connecticut launched a Women’s Leadership Council Oct. 20, announcing plans to implement financial education programs at one of the Hartford Community Schools.

The 2010 United Way Community Campaign kicked off on Friday, September 3 with a celebration at local United Way headquarters and a record-breaking United Way Day of Caring volunteer effort.

At the United Way building at 30 Laurel Street, Andy Bessette, executive vice president and chief administrative officer of The Travelers Companies, Inc., unveiled this year’s Community Campaign fundraising goal of $25.8 million. He was lifted high above the crowd by a Northeast Utilities line truck to reveal the goal, which is displayed on the side of the building.

Join us September 3 as we kick off the 2010 United Way Community Campaign! We'll be giving and volunteering whether rain or shine, so grab your rain gear and come out to support the campaign!*

2010 United Way Community Campaign Kickoff

When: September 3, 8 a.m.-9:30 a.m., rain or shine

Where: United Way of Central and Northeastern Connecticut, 30 Laurel St., Hartford