Several board members and guests showed up in bib overalls and other farm outfits for the United Way of the Desert's kickoff luncheon last month. It was their not-so-subtle way of calling attention to their new slogan, “Cultivating and Harvesting Community Support.”

For more than 30 years, UWD has been a safety net for the community, providing help to local families through their affiliated agencies. Money donated to United Way of the Desert stays in the desert, and many of its fundraisers revolve around friendly competition, such as the “Education Challenge Award,” won by Coachella Valley Unified School District last year. And the “Silver City Award” was won in a hard-fought battle by the city of Rancho Mirage.

The employees of many local businesses hold fundraisers all year so they can make a showing for their company at United Way events.

Payroll deductions raise 65 percent of United Way's income. Last year Bank of America raised $25,000 in support of United Way's 211 services. Anyone dialing that number can receive information on local human-care services.

This year's United Way goal is $1.75 million. Lamar Advertising donated 15 billboards to help awareness throughout the valley.

Among the 226 luncheon guests were senator John J. Benoit, state Assemblyman Brian Nestande, and elected officials from each community.

United Way of the Desert executive director Linda Krengel, board president Bill Powers, and vice president Jack FitzGerald welcomed this year's campaign cabinet members, Fred Beil, Bill Houck, Tim Sullivan, Dick Oliphant, Maria Miranda, Bob Marra, and Rick Daniels to the luncheon, held at the Renaissance Esmeralda Resort in Indian Wells.

Berrylynn Freeby volunteers with several local organizations. Reach her at FreebyStudios@dc.rr.com.