HARTFORD—The 2011 United Way Community Campaign got off to a rockin’ start with a Battle of the Bands at Mortensen Riverfront Plaza Sept. 7 and the announcement of the $25.8 million campaign goal, while more than 1,000 people volunteered for the 20^th Annual United Way Day of Caring.

Volunteers from 26 local workplaces completed 20 signature volunteer projects across central and northeastern Connecticut—including in Hartford, West Hartford, East Hartford, Enfield, New Britain and Avon—as part of United Way’s 20th annual Day of Caring.*

Bertram “Bert” Scott, president of U.S. Commercial Markets at Cigna, will chair the 2011 United Way Community Campaign, which raises resources to improve education, financial stability and health and provide a safety net of services across 40 towns in central and northeastern Connecticut.

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