The Area Wide United Way will celebrate its role and impact on the community at its annual meeting 11:30 a.m. Friday at the Drury Lodge in Cape Girardeau. New Officers and board members will be introduced and final 2002 campaign contributions will be announced.

Over 100 local businessmen, campaign volunteers and agency representatives will attend. Dave Courvoisier of KFVS-12 will emcee the event and present three community spirit awards:

The Spirit of Giving Award to an individual in the community who has shown a strong commitment to the mission of the United Way through their contribution of time and financial resources. 2001 recipient: Harry Rediger. 2002 recipient: Edythe Davis.

The Spirit of Community Award to a company in the community that has been a leader in supporting the work of the United Way and been an active member of the community in promoting its health and well being. 2001 recipient: Procter & Gamble. 2002 recipient: Bank of America.

The Spirit of Caring Award to an agency funded by the United Way that promotes, supports and embraces the work of the United Way and has partnered with the organization to promote the community's quality of life. 2001 recipient: American Red Cross. 2002 recipient: Girl Scouts of Otahki Council.

In addition, the media and retiring board members will be recognized along with Steve Taylor, past president, and Larry Dungar, 2002 campaign chairman. For more information, please contact the Area Wide United Way office at 334-9634.