The annual River Cities United Way Kick-0ff Lunch Friday afternoon began continuing efforts to ensure a better community.

Lyn Demaret, Robert Starkey and Ashley Wood spoke to the group of United Way supporters about the importance of its programs to the Lake Havasu area and what these programs do for the community.

Programs include VITA (a service assisting with tax preparation) and Kids Bright and Healthy Smiles, and more.

The Mohave County Sheriffs Department accepts a check from Unisource. Jillian Danielson/RiverScene

Lynne Peterson, of UniSource Energy, presented “Grants That Make A Difference” awards to the following organizations: River Cities United Way, Mohave County Search and Rescue, Jerry Ambrose Veterans Council, Women With Willpower, Arizona Youth Partnership and Club for Youth.

To learn more, visit the website at rivercitiesunitedway.org.

Women With Willpower representatives accept a check from Unisource. Jillian Danielson/RiverScene

Lyn Demaret speaks to guests attending the River Cities United Way kick-off lunch. Jillian Danielson/RiverScene