The trauma of a rape left Mikey Coffman emotionally and mentally shattered. When her thoughts of suicide turned to action, she ended up in a hospital and began a cycle of hospitalization and locked wards, a cycle from which she didn't think she'd be able to break free.

See photos from the campaign kickoff luncheon

A social worker and friend saved her, said Coffman, who shared her story at the United Way of the CSRA kickoff luncheon Monday at Bell Auditorium.

But it took more than her friend to help Coffman turn her life around and get back on her feet. She credits that to Friendship Community Center, a United Way-funded agency which assists people recovering from mental illness, and her work in Volunteers in Service To America.

Many years and two college degrees later, Coffman works as the office manager at Friendship Community Center, the same organization that helped her.

"The United Way isn't just an organization. It's not just a bunch of agencies. It's people; people like me," she said. "Without your help, I'd still be in my apartment watching Mr. Ed reruns, or I wouldn't be here at all."

Each August, the United Way of the CSRA embarks on a goal to raise money for the 46 health and human service programs it funds. In 2015, it raised $3,502,323, and officials announced plans of raising $3.5 million again this year.

"It's a big number, but we can achieve it," said Scott Elledge, campaign co-chairman.

About 600 people attended Monday's luncheon, which had a "Blast off To Outer Space" theme. Elledge dressed as Obi Wan Kenobi from Star Wars while his co-chairman, Mark Haddon, dressed as Han Solo.

In 2015, more than 110,000 people in the area received help from organizations the United Way funds.

"Your gift turned thousands of lives around," said Scott Johnson, United Way board chairman. "You're not just giving to agencies or programs. You are giving to people."

Officials also unveiled the fundraising campaign video, It's Time for a New Perspective, which encourages people to look beyond themselves and reach out to others in the community. It highlights some of the issues facing people in the Augusta area, including domestic violence, drug addiction, unemployment and homelessness.

Coffman shared her new perspective with the audience.

While many people dread April 15 each year, Coffman said she sees it in a more positive light and as proof of the healing in her journey. She holds a job and is a taxpaying citizen.

"(I'm) a productive member of society again," she said.

To learn more about United Way of the CSRA, visit uwcsra.org.