Milton Little, president of United Way of Metro Atlanta, and Elly Dalton speak at Thursday's United Way 2009 Campaign Kick-Off in conjunction with the Conyers and Rockdale County Rotary Clubs. Upcoming events include an early learning book drive through the end of Sept., a barbecue fundraiser Sept. 17, Read for the Record on Oct. 15, a chili cook-off on Oct. 14, and holiday networking on Dec. 10. Little said the non-profit was about to launch, "the most important campaign since the Great Depression. Never have the risks been so high, but never have the obstacles been so high." The goal is to raise $340,000 for Rockdale this year, surpassing the $289,000 raised last year. For more information, call (770) 922-7725.