GOLDSBORO, N.C.—Last night, November 25th, United Way of Wayne County celebrated those who gave their Fair Share this year by giving away a Royal Caribbean Cruise for two to one lucky finalist at Downtown Lights Up at The Hub in downtown Goldsboro.

Since September of this year, names have been randomly selected from the pool of Fair Share Investors for a chance to win big for their efforts in giving back to the community. “A Fair Share Investor is someone who invests in their community through United Way with a minimum of one hour’s pay per month for a year,” explained Sherry Archibald, Executive Director. “This year, 20 finalists were selected at random from all Fair Share Investors to be entered into a final drawing for a cruise for two, thanks to a sponsorship from Mallory Dumond, a travel agent with Travelmation” Archibald said.

After several chance-based steps, each finalist lined up with a key in their hand to try to unlock the “Golden Barrel” containing the prize money. As always, the anticipation was growing as finalist after finalist tried their keys with no luck. Then, John Parks, an investor with Caterpillar Transfer Solutions, stepped up to see if he was the lucky winner. When he slid his key into the lock and heard that quiet “POP!”, the cheers of excitement that followed could be heard throughout The Hub, and Parks raised his hands in victory.

During last night’s program, Selena Worrell, United Way of Wayne County’s Community Campaign Chair, recognized the finalists and said, “Each of you, along with hundreds of others who made a Fair Share pledge to United Way of Wayne County, are valued investors standing up for a stronger community. Thanks to all the generous support towards our campaign, I am happy to announce we are at 78% of our goal!”

Investments to United Way of Wayne County can be made through an employer or on a personal basis. To contribute, contact your employer or send a check or pledge to PO Box 10893, Goldsboro, NC 27532. Or visit www.unitedwayne.org.