United Way of Cayuga County will launch its annual Community-wide Fundraising Drive with a free Taste of United Way event Aug. 25 in Auburn.
The family-friendly event will run from 3 to 6 p.m. at the Hilton Garden Inn and will showcase local programs, member agencies and United Way initiatives.
The event will include a passport program, light snacks, a cash bar, raffles and more than 30 interactive stations. Attendees who visit 75% of the stations will be entered to win a $500 Wegmans gift card, and those who visit every station will receive three chances to win.
Funded 2026-27 member agencies will host stations explaining their work and how United Way grant funding supports Cayuga County residents. Additional stations will highlight United Way efforts tied to youth success, community engagement, financial empowerment and family support.
One station will focus on the Personal Care Drive. Attendees can receive one raffle table ticket for each new, full-sized hygiene item they donate.
The event is free and walk-ins are welcome, though groups that register by Sunday, Aug. 23, will receive a 10% discount at The Refinery, courtesy of the Hilton Garden Inn. Registered attendees will also receive one raffle ticket per person.
Attendees interested in learning more about ALICE, which stands for Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed, may sign up at check-in for an abbreviated 30-minute simulation. Sessions are scheduled for 3:45 and 5 p.m., with space limited. Those who complete the simulation will receive a chance to win the $500 Wegmans gift card.
United Way said it is shifting its fundraising timeline to better meet local needs. The 2026 Community-wide Fundraising Drive will run from Taste of United Way through Sunday, Nov. 15.
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