United Way of Mid Coast Maine — which funds 37 local service agencies that serve people in Brunswick, Harpswell and throughout Sagadahoc and Lincoln counties — kicks off its annual fundraising campaign today.

The campaign is an integral part of United Way of Mid Coast Maine’s mission “to improve lives by mobilizing the caring power of communities.”

In partnership with thousands of donors, United Way works on community solutions and funds local programs that aid an estimated 20,000 local people each year.

The campaign kicks off today at 4:30 p.m. at the Maine Maritime Museum on Washington Street.

Volunteer Campaign Chairman Vin DiCara will announce an early campaign for “Pacesetter” dollars and give results of the kick-off food drive at local workplaces. There will be appetizers and a showing of a new video portraying the 2013 campaign theme “Connecting to Improve Lives.”

“I have been learning more and more about how much good is done by United Way of Mid-coast Maine,” DiCara said.

“Many people need our help,” he said. “We are asking people to be generous. When you give to United Way, you connect to the people of your community, and you change lives.”

DiCara is a graduate of Bowdoin College, received a master’s degree in public administration from the University of Maine and lives in Brunswick with his wife.

The public is invited to attend today’s event, sponsored by Mid Coast Hospital. Call 443-9752 or e-mail info@uwmcm.org to RSVP.