Tulsa Area United Way kicks off annual Downtown Deco Challenge

The Tulsa Area United Way will hold its annual Downtown Deco Challenge this weekend to officially kick off its fall community campaign. The event aims to bring the community together while raising funds for local nonprofits.

Event Details

The festival will take place Saturday, Aug. 23, at 6th Street and Main Street, running from 8 a.m. to noon. Organizers encourage participants to arrive early, though activities will continue until noon.

Family-friendly activities include bubbles, sidewalk chalk, rock painting for the Global Gardens, friendship bracelet making with Girl Scouts, and Pine Derby races with Scouting America.

Music and other entertainment will also be featured throughout the morning.

Fundraising Efforts

The Downtown Deco Challenge was originally launched during the pandemic when Price Family Properties offered $100 for every person and pet attending the event.

With a goal of attracting 1,000 participants, the event has the potential to raise more than $100,000 for local programs.

Community Impact

Funds raised support 160 nonprofit programs in the Tulsa area. Last year, partner organizations provided services to residents more than 657,000 times.

Contributions can be made through payroll deduction, checks, or other donation methods, providing support to community members in need.

Expansion and Volunteer Opportunities

The Tulsa Area United Way has expanded to include Rogers, Mayes, and Delaware counties.

Volunteers can participate in upcoming Days of Caring events: Aug. 29 in Sapulpa, Sept. 12 in Tulsa, and Oct. 10 in the newly added counties.

These events mobilize community members to assist local organizations and make a direct impact.

Community Goals

During Saturday’s event, United Way will announce the fundraising goal for this year’s campaign.

Organizers say the festival exemplifies how the Tulsa community can unite to address local challenges and make a meaningful difference.