United Way of Carbon County recently held its annual Campaign Kickoff luncheon at The Blue Shamrock Restaurant at 2230 Fireline Road in Palmerton.

Guest speaker Joe Krushinsky, chairman of The American Cancer Society's Carbon-Tamaqua Unit, spoke about his roles with the ACS and his career in broadcasting with PBS.Each year, partner agencies of the United Way of Carbon County help thousands of residents. These local agencies provide basic needs to low-income individuals, work to strengthen families, ensure that children succeed in school and promote self-sufficiency.UWCC is in need of volunteers and new board members.For more information or for ways to help the annual campaign efforts, contact Dr. Lisa Bleicher, UWCC president at 570-242-2466.