Special to The Dorchester Banner/United Way The 2014 United Way Holiday Ball Committee, United Way staff and volunteers ensured the most successful Holiday Ball to date at the Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay Resort in Cambridge. Nearly 350 people from across the Shore attended the “Event of the Year” and a record-breaking $120,000 was raised to benefit United Way of the Lower Eastern Shore.[/caption]

CAMBRIDGE — Nearly 350 people from across the Shore and beyond recently rang in the 2014 Holiday Season at the 12th annual United Way Holiday Ball. The “Event of the Year” at the Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay Resort was at its best, raising a record-breaking $120,000 to benefit United Way of the Lower Eastern Shore.

Attendees enjoyed exquisite dining, danced to the magnificent brass sounds of “Grooveline” and enjoyed “friendly competition” in the highly anticipated “Wonderful Wall of Wine.” New this year, attendees had the opportunity to bid on nearly 75 “Perfect Present” silent auction items through their mobile device which created excitement and increased participation.

The dedicated and passionate United Way Holiday Ball Committee, begin planning the annual “Event of the Year” in August with members contributing countless hours to ensure success through soliciting local companies for sponsorships, securing popular live and silent auction items and assembling stockings attendees receive when they arrive at the Hyatt Regency for their overnight stay.

Increased success can also be attributed to Holiday Ball Committee Co-Chairs Kevin Hayes and Dr. Diane Davis-Hayes. In the past two years, they have helped to raise nearly $180,000 through their efforts with the annual fundraiser. Kevin and Diane shared, “Due to the overwhelming generosity and support of the community, the 2014 Holiday Ball was a sellout and the event set records for attendance, sponsors and income. Proceeds will help our United Way provide critical health, financial and educational opportunities to our neighbors in need on the Lower Eastern Shore.”

Now in its 70th year, United Way of the Lower Eastern Shore continues to be the largest non-governmental source of funding for 56 critical programs in Wicomico, Worcester, Somerset and Dorchester counties. United Way of the Lower Eastern Shore helps Eastern Shore residents achieve educational success, income stability and good health. In 2014, United Way impacted local lives by providing over $1 million to community programs and helped over 70,000 individuals. To learn more about United Way of the Lower Eastern Shore visit www.unitedway4us.org or call 410-742-5143.