AUGUSTA — United Way of Kennebec Valley recently named Chris Russell and his daughter, Gabby, of Farmingdale, as its next campaign co-chairman and co-chairwoman, who will lead the organization’s 2018 fundraising efforts. Chris Russell, project manager/supervisor at G&E Roofing and a longtime United Way board member, along with 8-year-old Gabby, will play a key role in mobilizing the caring power of Kennebec Valley people to fund community needs, according to a news release from the United Way of Kennebec Valley.

With the support of a Campaign Cabinet, made up of business and community leaders who will build partnerships across the region, the Russells will lead the United Way in expanding its network of individual and corporate donors.

Chris Russell, right, and his daughter Gabby recently toured the Winthrop Food Pantry, a United Way partner program. Photo courtesy of United Way of Kennebec Valley

“We are part of a wonderful community,” Chris Russell said, according to the release. “I want my daughter to understand at an early age that we all need to do our part to make this community great.”

As part of its annual initiative, United Way workplace campaigns engage more than 125 local businesses each year, representing about 3,000 donors. Last year, donations to United Way totaled more than $1.66 million and assisted more than 20,000 people in 47 programs across the region.

Through corporate and employee donations, G&E Roofing has distinguished itself among United Way’s 12 Cornerstone Partners, which collectively make up more than 53 percent of UWKV’s annual campaign. Through the leadership of G&E owner Norm Elvin, the company became a founding partner of United Way’s Day of Caring nearly 20 years ago, connecting student volunteers from 15 local schools with work projects throughout Kennebec Valley. Chris Russell and other dedicated G&E employees store, organize and deliver tools and equipment to support students in their service projects, according to the release.

“We are pleased that Chris and his daughter, Gabby, will be leading this year’s United Way Campaign,” Norm Elvin said, according to the release. “Chris has demonstrated his leadership skills both here at G&E and in the community for many years. We are behind him every step of the way.”

Chris Russell earned a bachelor’s degree in sociology from St. Joseph’s College, and has worked in the roofing industry since 1990. He started with Augusta-based professional commercial roofing contractor G&E Roofing in 2002. Gabby is completing second grade at Hall-Dale Elementary School, where she participates in United Way’s Day of Caring student volunteer event each year.

Those interested in serving on the United Way Campaign Cabinet can call 626-3400. For more information about United Way, visit uwkv.org.

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