Boss of the Toss
United Way of Northern California’s Cornhole Tournament…
This month, Enjoy spoke with AbbyAnn LoCascio, communications specialist at United Way of Northern California, about the agency’s mission and new fundraising event.
ENJOY: How would you describe the United Way of Northern California?
LOCASCIO: United Way of Northern California provides and supports programs focused on the building blocks of life: health, education and financial stability. This also includes wildfire response and recovery. Our vision is to enhance the quality of life in our nine-county region by mobilizing the desire and capacity of people to care for one another.
ENJOY: Are there priority areas the agency is focused on now?
LOCASCIO: Currently, wildfire prevention and response are key areas of focus for us, as well as our continued commitment to assisting people experiencing homelessness. Additionally, we’re always looking to expand the reach of our health, education and financial services to better serve our communities.
ENJOY: So many people are in need, especially with ongoing wildfires and COVID-19. Where does the United Way of Northern California get the resources to address it all?
LOCASCIO: In addition to funding from the state, we receive support from community organizations, businesses and individual donors who have a strong connection to our mission and values. During the past couple of years, we’ve received numerous grants for COVID-19 relief and education. Although we’ve tended to keep our fundraising events small, we are now pursuing new ideas that better encompass our entire regional service area.
ENJOY: This sounds intriguing. Tell me more.
LOCASCIO: We are hosting our first Boss of the Toss cornhole tournament, presented by Columbia Bank and operated by C&H Cornhole. The competition is open to everyone, from beginner through advanced cornhole player and all non-competitors who just want to come out and watch the competition while enjoying food and drinks, games, face painting, raffles and vendor tables. The grand prize is $1,000, $750 for second place and $300 for third place.
ENJOY: How will the funds raised by the event be used?
LOCASCIO: Proceeds will go to the United Way of Northern California’s General Fund, which is used to support our disaster services and other essential programs.
ENJOY: What are the event details?
LOCASCIO: The Boss of the Toss cornhole tournament takes place Saturday, October 8, from 9:30 am to 5 pm in the parking lot of the Sheraton Hotel in Redding. Registration is first come, first served and will be open until the day of the event. Registration is limited to 64 two-person teams.
ENJOY: What do you most want people to know about your organization?
LOCASCIO: We want you to know that the United Way of Northern California is here for you, your loved ones, and your community. So many people suffer through hard times alone. We want you to know that you don’t have to do it alone. We have resources that can help you and your family in whatever challenge you may be facing. •
United Way of Northern California
(530) 241-7521 • https://norcalunited.co/BossoftheToss
Article Written By:
Claudia Mosby is a Redding-based freelance writer. She is the founder and director of The Expressive Spirit, a wellness company in Mt. Shasta offering spiritual direction, arts and nature-based activities and consultancy for grief and loss.
