When it comes to United Way boards throughout the country, they typically have full-time staff that is paid to help raise the money that you see at these telethons across the country. That's part of what makes the United Way Telethon in Estevan raising so much money in such a short time.

In 2018, they set a new record of $372,290. This year in 2019, the telethon hit $377,152. 

"It feels absolutely amazing to hit a new record," exclaimed Becca Foord, the president of the United Way Estevan. "I'm trying not to focus on that record, but more on the fact that we have raised $377,152 for our community, which is a phenomenal number so that we can help so many more people in this community."

The telethon had a great start and had a total of  $132,700 by 5 p.m. on Friday and then skyrocketed in the afternoon on Saturday. All the volunteers and viewers were thrilled when the telethon surpassed the goal of $340,000 shortly before 2 p.m.  

"Our entertainment was fabulous, we had so many diverse acts, with people who wanted to sing, people who wanted to dance, and we had people to show us how to exercise. We had a vast arrangement of entertainment this year, and our entertainment keeps getting better every year. It's absolutely cool to see all the talent that comes out of the Estevan area." 

This year, the United way telethon had a total of 79 bid items. From woodworks to painting and from knitted or crocheted house wears to delicious backed good, there was something up for bid for everyone. All the items that were up for bid were hand-made by members of the community to help support the cause. 

Foord is thankful to all the volunteers who made the 43rd annual telethon another great success, as well as the great, talented people who came out to perform during the 33 hours. She is also very thankful to all who donated and came out to watch, as, without the support, they would not have been able to surpass this year's goal. 

With the extra money that was raised this year, the allocation committee for the United Way Estevan will be meeting up and discussing where the additional fund will go. Foord notes that it is a great feeling when they can go to a few of their member agencies, after figuring out where the extra should go and giving them some additional funds to help them.