United Way of Central Oklahoma kicked off the United Way Pacesetter Campaign with its annual Pacesetter Games on Thursday on the lawn at American Fidelity.

Pacesetters are those businesses and organizations that run early United Way campaigns between June and September, setting the tone for more than 1,500 workplace campaigns that will take place in the fall. Funds raised through workplace giving help fund local programs that are addressing our community’s most critical needs.

Emceed by 2014 United Way Campaign Chair Carl Edwards, Price Edwards & Company and 2014 United Way Pacesetter Chair David Rainbolt, BancFirst, the island-themed event was a competitive and enthusiastic kickoff with 25 corporate teams and United Way Partner Agencies participating. Guests enjoyed hotdogs and beverages provided by INTEGRIS Health.

The team INTEGRIS was named Pacesetter Games champions, with Valliance Bank coming in second place and the YWCA placing third. The Spirit Award was given to VI Marketing and Branding. Tropical trophies were also given to winners of the team t-shirt design contest, with The Education & Employment Ministry (TEEM) given the award in the “homemade” category and INTEGRIS taking home the title in the “professionally designed” group.

“These Pacesetter companies are known for their generosity and community spirit, and they inspire others to follow their lead when it’s time for the annual campaign” said Debby Hampton, President and CEO, United Way of Central Oklahoma. “This event serves as a fun and lighthearted opportunity for us to share our excitement about the upcoming campaign with our most ambitious supporters.”

Last year, Pacesetter companies contributed $6,248,585 – about 29% of all United Way dollars in 2013.