The United Way of Wayne County’s annual ‘Fill the Theatre’ event held on Feb. 5-6 surpased its ambitious goal to fill all 500 seats of the Paramount Theatre with donated items.
Thanks to the overwhelming generosity of local businesses, government bodies, civic and nonprofit organizations, and community members, the event collected far more than expected.
The initiative aimed to bring the community together to support local charities by “filling” the theatre’s seats with donations.
Community spirit was on full display as donations poured in from all corners of Wayne County.
UNC Health Wayne led the charge, contributing an astounding 3,552 items.
Many others stepped up, including Melissa Throm State Farm, Wayne Country Day School, 4-H Roto Raptors, Sentry Insurance, US Cargo Systems, Worrell Contracting, Local ECA Clubs, The Grundmeier Family, and nonprofits like Communities Support Schools, Kriquette’s Kidz, and Seymour Home Away from Home.
“The success of ‘Fill the Theatre’ reflects the generosity and compassion of our community,” said Sherry Archibald, Executive Director of United Way of Wayne County. “The unity and enthusiasm we witnessed are a testament to what we can achieve when we work together.”
Proceeds from the event will benefit local charities, supporting over 3,800 people with hot meals, food packages, menstrual kits, hygiene kits, and backpack buddies.
The event also saw 37 volunteers working 127 hours to manage logistics and ensure smooth operations.
The staff and board of United Way of Wayne County extend heartfelt thanks to all sponsors, volunteers, and participants who made ‘Fill the Theatre’ a success. Plans are already underway for next year’s event.
The event’s success would not have been possible without the continued support of the Paramount Theatre and businesses that served as drop-off locations, including Crawford-Henderson Insurance, Goldsboro Builder’s Supply, DGDC, Habitat ReStore, Homewood Suites, NC Community Federal Credit Union, TA Loving, and the Wayne County Judicial Branch.
