Charcuterie for Charity event raises $19,256 for local nonprofits in Hannibal

December 17, 2024 | By Muddy River News

Denise Damron, left, director of the United Way of the Mark Twain Area, and Angela Peters, campaign chair for the Everyone Can Help Someone campaign, stand behind the donation table at the Charcuterie for Charity event. The event kicked off Giving Week and, along with matching funds from the Giving Week Fund, brought in more than $19,000 for local organizations. | Photos courtesy of United Way of the Mark Twain Area

HANNIBAL, Mo. — The Charcuterie for Charity event on Dec. 3 at the Rialto raised $19,256 for local nonprofit organizations. The event launched Giving Week, which ran through Dec. 6.

The event featured charcuterie table displays sponsored by local businesses with representatives from local agencies ready to inform guests about their organizations.

Charcuterie displays were judged and prizes were awarded in three categories by Ashley Orscheln, owner of McDonald’s and partner of United Way’s Dine United program.

Best Tasting: The Child Advocacy Center sponsored by Benson Financial Group, featuring three varieties of homemade ice cream with various toppings, crumble cookies, and cupcakes.
Most Creative: The Salvation Army, featuring a s’mores bar with a candle for marshmallow toasting, and homemade fudge and candies.
Overall Best: HAYS and Hannibal Parents as Teachers sponsored by Century 21 Broughton Team, featuring a martini-themed dip table with warm and cold dips with bread and vegetables to enjoy in small martini glasses.

The Riedel Foundation partnered with the United Way of the Mark Twain Area to increase the impact of donations through a Giving Week Fund, which matched gifts up to $10,000 — allowing a $2,500 match per nonprofit organization.

Denise Damron, director of the United Way of the Mark Twain Area said she was blown away by the success of the event.

“It’s always wonderful to see our community support these local organizations that, in turn, provide a lifeline to local people in need of help,” she said in a press release.