Tough times call for tough measures. That's a popular saying heard around the world, but in Covington County, tough times mean people helping each other. That's never been more evident than with the old Andalusia and Opp United Funds. Now that the two funds have combined into the Covington County United Fund, taking that helping hand to the next level is possible. And with the massive lay-offs throughout the county recently it's more important than ever for Covington County's citizens to band together to lend a helping hand.

The first opportunity to show that county solidarity comes Thursday night at the Kiwanis Building in Andalusia when $10 will get you a good meal and piece of mind as the Covington County United Fund kicks-off its 2003-2004 fund-raising efforts with a big bash and meal at 7 p.m.

Among the scheduled events for the evening are a the unveiling of the first-ever county-wide campaign goal, announcment of pacesetter businesses and a chance for citizens to become more acquainted with this year's United Fund Agencies and the people who make sure the agencies are there in time of need.

Agencies such as Alabama Easter Seal Society, American Heart Association, American Red Cross, and the Leukemia Society of America are just a few of the agencies people might be familiar with. But, there are numerous local agencies some Covington County citizens may not be as familiar with such as Acts of Kindness, Opportunity House, Impact of Covington County, and the Covington County Adult Training Center. All worthy agencies hoping for a little help from the people they serve the most - Covington Countians.

But it's not all about those agencies. There are more than two dozen total agencies served by the Covington County United Fund - agencies that work daily to make a difference in the lives of Covington County's citizens. Some do that by bringing the children of the county sporting activities. Others do that by providing educational opportunities, while still others provide a safe place for those in need to go.

To help kick off the first-ever Covington County United Fund Drive, Jerry Bynum, chief executive officer of Camp ASCCA Easter Seals will be the guest speaker.

Bynum has served as CEO of Camp ASCCA, Alabama's place for special children on the shores of Lake Martin in Jackson's Gap, for the past 25 years. He will speak on the importance of giving to organizations such as the Covington County United Fund and the good things member agencies can do with funding they receive.

Tickets are $10 and are still available for the big kick-off bash. They can be obtained through the Andalusia Area Chamber of Commerce at 222-2030 or the Opp and Covington County Area Chamber of Commerce at 493-3070.