By Darragh Doiron

The News staff writer

Like heroes unveiling their true identities, United Way campaign supporters parted shirts to reveal “Live United” T-shirts.

The campaign kicked off Wednesday with 20 percent of a $1,110,000 goal already raised, Chuck Olliff, campaign chair, said at a breakfast at United Methodist Temple.

“It’s going to be a good campaign, as it always is,” Olliff, a staff therapist at Samaritan Counseling Center, said.

The annual campaign helps fund 20 area agencies providing nutritional, physical and cultural support, Vicki Derese, chairman of the board, said.

Agencies receiving support from local donors include Boy’s Haven, Hughen Center, Port Cities Rescue Mission, Community Care-Prayer Outreach and American Red Cross.

Olliff said there are statistics upon statistics indicating needs in our area. He challenged campaign workers to envision solutions.

“Then we see what could be … what should be,” he said.

The goal is a well researched and attainable one Olliff said.

A video highlighting volunteers and organizers from local agencies, such as YMCA and the Hospitality Center, featured more locals in Live United! shirts who urged residents to give of their time and money to ensure the groups can continue their mission.

The campaign kicked off with $230,500 on the drive “thermometer,” with early Pace Setter contributions from Chevron Phillips Chemical Co., Motiva Enterprise LLC and Valero Port Arthur Refinery.

Chevron Phillips and Valero hosted the breakfast. For more information on the drive, call 985-5533.

Contact this reporter at ddoiron@panews.com.