The local United Way fundraising campaign continues to move forward with about 66% of the total goal having been reached to date.

As of early this week, $1,322,444 of the goal of $1.99 million has been raised.

To continue to promote awareness of United Way in November and to meet the overwhelming need for warm socks during the winter months, United Way is gearing up for the fourth annual Sockey Night in Red Deer, in partnership with the Red Deer Rebels.

On Nov. 24, United Way volunteers will be among hockey fans cheering on the Red Deer Rebels while selling socks to be thrown on the ice during the second intermission.

“Last year, thanks to the support of so many caring community members, we were able to donate over 1,000 pairs of socks to local agencies in Central Alberta. This year, we’re hoping to increase that number because we know that there is always an urgent need for clean, warm socks,” said John Knoch, volunteer campaign co-chair.

Hockey fans who want to participate in this promotion can do so in two ways; by donating new pairs of socks or by purchasing socks, which are then collected off the ice after the second intermission and distributed back into the community. New this year, donations or sock purchases can be made at the United Way office starting today at 4811 48 St.

Fans can also win some prizes through the raffle draw. The total value is over $1,400 and includes a 16G 3rd Gen iPad. Purchasers do not need to be in attendance in order to win.

The money raised through sock and raffle sales will go towards the 2012 campaign, which is put directly back into the community and provides consistent funding to over 30 programs and services in Central Alberta.

Last year, 16,880 low income families and communities members received food, clothing and shelter to meet their basic needs.

Meanwhile, staff and volunteers are also preparing to host the second annual St. Andrew’s Day Celebration on Dec. 3.

This exclusive Scotch tasting event last year brought in $5,500 in just two hours. This year organizers feel that attendees will enjoy their experience even more with a broader selection of scotches to taste and an abundance of food pairings.

“As the past campaign co-chair and a scotch fan, I am excited to be part of this event. Not only does this provide us a chance to sample scotches from around the world, but we are helping our community at the same time. It’s also a good excuse for me to put on a kilt,” said Lars Rogers, St. Andrews Day Celebration committee member.

The planning committee hopes to raise $10,000 during this year’s event. With 100 tickets available and less than 20 tickets left to be sold, United Way is confident that the event will be successful.

“We are lucky to have over 20 sponsors supporting this event, including RBC and Big Bend Market. As a result, we have 20 different bottles of scotch up for silent auction this year, in addition to some great live auction items. The best thing about this event is that the money raised will go back into making a difference in our communities,” said Knoch.

To reserve a spot for this event, tickets are only available online at www.caunitedway.ca or by calling the United Way office at 403-343-3900.

The event takes place at Cork’d Taphouse and Grill from 4 to 7 p.m.

A driver take home program will be available through Red Deer Search and Rescue.

The money raised during the 2012 Campaign is put directly back into the community and provides consistent funding to over 30 programs and services in Central Alberta.

-Weber