United Way’s Supper on the ‘Sip is back

On Thursday, Oct. 13, Dine and Stroll the Old Mississippi River Bridge: Supper on the ‘Sip, United Way of West Central Mississippi’s beloved fundraising event, makes a triumphant return after a two-year hiatus.

“We are so thrilled to be able host Vicksburg’s favorite way to cross the river again this year,” said Elizabeth Seratt, United Way of West Central Mississippi Director of Marketing and Resource Development. “The past few years have presented many hardships, so it’s exciting to be able to gather together in person again, especially for an event that’s so unique to our community.”

Supper on the ‘Sip gives guests a chance to stroll along the Old Mississippi River Bridge, sampling selections from 24 local restaurants and caterers while enjoying live music at various stages along the way. A professional photographer will be on-site to capture the incredible evening, as will local artist Clare Huntley who will paint scenes from the evening. Guests will have the chance to win the original artwork through a raffle.

Tickets to the event went on sale at midnight on Sep. 1 and sold out in under 30 hours. Since then, United Way of West Central Mississippi has continued to receive daily phone calls, emails and Facebook messages from people hoping to find tickets. More than 1,000 tickets have been sold, a particularly impressive feat considering Vicksburg’s population of just over 22,000. All proceeds benefit United Way of West Central Mississippi’s 17 partner agencies and programs, which work to support the health, education, financial stability and access to services of every person in Claiborne, Sharkey, Issaquena, Yazoo and Warren Counties in Mississippi and a tip of Madison Parish in Louisiana.

United Way of West Central Mississippi’s small staff led to much collaboration, with 24 sponsors supporting the event and some 100 volunteers working to recruit restaurants, design and sell merchandise, and orchestrate the intricate logistics and décor of an event of this scale. “This truly unforgettable night would not be possible without our incredible committee of volunteers,” said Michele Connelly, Executive Director of United Way of West Central Mississippi. “They represent our community as a whole: no matter what we go through, we will come together to support each other and celebrate what makes our community special.”