By CAROLINE CARMICHAEL / Staff Writer

Chilton County United Way is hosting a unique fundraiser this year, selling tickets for a drawing for a white, 2003 Ford Focus, to be awarded to a winner at the United Way kickoff on Sept. 26 at the Alabama Power Company conference center.

Tickets are $25 each, or five tickets for a total of $100, allowing contestants greater likelihood of being drawn as the winner.

Southern Dixie Auto Repair donated the vehicle, which has a five-speed transmission and five seats.

Since July, the car has been parked on display in front of businesses, such as Sav-Mor Associated Foods and Winn-Dixie.

It currently is exhibited at the Walmart Supercenter in Clanton.

According to Campaign Coordinator Misi Caton, all proceeds from ticket purchases will benefit the work of United Way over the course of the following year.

Caton said this is the first time Chilton County United Way has used a ticket drawing for a car as a fundraiser.

“This is what we depend on,” Caton said. “This is the kind of money we depend on… Fundraisers — that’s pretty much what we run on, and that’s it.”

Tickets will also be available for purchase at the kick-off, before the official winner is drawn and announced, Caton said.

The kickoff will feature booths hosted by various local agencies impacted by Chilton County United Way, Caton said.

Caton said these organizations receive quarterly or monthly checks from United Way, as part of the United Way mission to “fight for the health, education and financial stability of every person in every community,” according to UnitedWay.org.

Caton said schools are included in United Way sponsorship, as well.

“So, it’s just real important for the community to get involved,” Caton said.

To purchase tickets, see a United Way board member or call (205) 755-5875.

For more information about Chilton County United Way, check out the nonprofit’s Facebook page or visit https://www.unitedway.org/local/united-states/alabama/chilton-county-united-way.