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The Covington County United Fund is currently holding its annual fund drive to assist numerous nonprofits in the area.

This year, the United Fund mission is to raise $120,000, which will be used by member agencies to render human care services needed across Covington County.

“We know that difficult economic times are greatly impacting the less fortunate of Covington County. Giving to the United Fund provides an opportunity to help those who are suffering the most in our community. These donations are distributed throughout the county and all funds stay local,” said United Fund President Courtney Duke Hudson.

This year’s fund drive did get off to a delayed start due to the pandemic, but Hudson said things are proceeding well.

“We have a lot of businesses whose continued support provides a big boost for the United Fund. That, combined with employee contributions and individual donations, provides the foundation for the United Fund each year. We certainly appreciate their support,” she said.

In addition to donations, the United Fund will host its Fourth Annual 5K/Walk, the Red Nose Reindeer Dash, on Saturday, Dec. 5, beginning at 8:30 a.m. from CCB Community Bank.

“The Reindeer Dash is our only fundraiser and we’ve been working to make it more successful each year. This year, runners should dress for the holidays as we will be providing a special gift basket to the participant who displays the most Christmas spirit,” Hudson said.

There are three level of business sponsorships for the event, ranging from $100 up to $500. Registration to participate in the Reindeer Dash is $25 for early entry up to Nov. 27. Registration will be held from 7:30 to 8:15 on the morning of the run and is $30. All participants who register early will receive a t-shirt and awards will be presented to the first and second place finishers in each group. Registration is available online at active.com.

Considering the many challenges facing nonprofits in 2020, Hudson said she hopes the United Fund can provide some relief.

“We know the support provided by the United Fund is beneficial to our nonprofit agencies and that is especially true this year. We hope to help them as much as possible,” Hudson said.

Agencies that benefit through the United Fund include the Covington County Chapter of American Red Cross, Andalusia Adult Activity and Nutrition Center, Andalusia Community Christmas, Andalusia Ministerial Association, Bethesda House, Covington County 4-H, Covington County Adult Training Center, Covington County Imagination Library, Crossover Ministries, Florala Senior Center, Governor’s Committee on Employment of People with Disabilities, Lucile Pierce Family Literacy Center, Opp Benevolence Fund, Opp Meals on Wheels, public libraries, Sav-A-Life Family Hope Center, and youth sports recreation board.