Like many things, the United Way Telethon will look considerably different in 2020 than in years past.

But their president, Melanie Graham, is optimistic that they'll have strong community support again for the 44th edition of their annual fundraiser.

"Being 2020 has given us even more challenges with COVID and all, the community really has stood behind us in the past and I believe wholeheartedly they will again this year," said Graham.

This year's theme is 'United We Stand,' and the goal is to raise $320,000 during the 33-hour event running from 8 a.m. October 16 to 5 p.m. October 17 at the Estevan Legion.

That money is split up between their 15 member agencies, according to need.

There won't be a live audience or any large groups of students or other entertainers showcasing their talents this year, so there has been a focus on setting up prerecorded performances.

"But we can have some live entertainment of six people or less," said Graham. "And we do have a closing band planned. Can't reveal just yet who that is."

Graham said they're hoping students can still be a big piece of the event, whether it's through prerecorded science experiments or math challenges, or whatever alternatives could work.

She said they'll miss all the people the school productions bring in.

"The kids, they bring in their parents, their grandparents, aunts and uncles. It certainly will be different for our Friday performances. But we're making the best of the situation, and move forward and raise the money we can for our member agencies and community-impact projects."

The United Way has a couple other fundraisers on the go - there's an Oil-A-Thon coming up with Great Canadian Oil Change on October 1, as well as Save the Summer coupons books with the Estevan Mercury.

Despite the economic downturn, Graham said the support they get for these fundraisers is always strong, and they're hopeful for that to continue over the next month and a bit.

"The community is amazing. I've been a member with the United Way for seven years, and they really pull through. Because every donation, small, it adds up in the end. Community does stand behind us and help us tremendously, because truly these agencies,Thi the 15 member agencies, you usually know of someone associated to those member agencies receiving help. So people do want to help."