First United Bank & Trust is proud to serve as a Gold Sponsor and participant in the 5th Annual Mountain Maryland Dragon Boat Festival, taking place on Saturday, August 22, from 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. at Broadford Lake Park, 123 Recreation Lane, Mt. Lake Park, MD.
The annual event is a fundraiser benefiting the Dove Center, a nonprofit organization that provides safety, advocacy, and counseling to individuals impacted by domestic violence and sexual assault, while working to expand public awareness throughout the community.
A team of First United associates will take to the water in a 20-person dragon boat, joining amateur teams from across the region in a day of exciting competition, community spirit, and charitable giving. The event welcomes participants of all skill levels as they race for the championship title.
Serving as co-captains of the First United team are Natasha Gore and Shawnna Stringfellow, who are helping rally the team and support the festival’s mission.
“We are excited to represent First United at this incredible community event,” said Gore. “The Dragon Boat Festival brings people together for a great cause, and we look forward to sharing a fun and memorable day with our teammates, families, customers, and community members.”
Stringfellow added, “What makes this event especially meaningful is the opportunity to support the Dove Center and the important work they do every day. We’re proud to paddle alongside other teams while helping raise awareness and resources for individuals and families in need.”
The festival offers much more than dragon boat racing. Spectators can enjoy food vendors, artisan vendors, children’s activities, and a full day of family-friendly entertainment set against the scenic backdrop of Broadford Lake Park.
“At First United, we believe in strengthening the communities we serve and supporting organizations that make a meaningful difference in people’s lives,” said Jason Rush, President and CEO of First United Bank & Trust. “We are honored to sponsor the Mountain Maryland Dragon Boat Festival and support the Dove Center’s mission. We invite everyone to join us, cheer on our team, and enjoy a wonderful day of fun, fellowship, and community impact.”
Community members are encouraged to attend, cheer on the First United team, and support the Dove Center. Admission is free, and donations made through the event help fund critical services for survivors throughout the region.
For more information about the festival or to donate, visit:
https://dovecenter.betterworld.org/events/5th-annual-mountain-maryland-dra
To learn more about the Dove Center, visit: https://www.gcdovecenter.org/
First United Corporation operates one full-service commercial bank, First United Bank & Trust. The Bank has a network of community offices in Garrett, Allegany, Washington, and Frederick counties in Maryland, as well as Mineral, Berkeley, and Monongalia counties in West Virginia. First United’s website can be located at MyBank.com. As of 6/30/2026, the corporation posted assets of $2.1 billion.