United Way surpasses its goal

The event included the exciting announcement that the campaign had surpassed its fundraising goal. Despite setting the goal at $750,000, the final amount raised was an impressive $753,180. This exciting news was shared by the Marshall County ARC clients, who made the announcement through a specially produced video on a dedicated segment of their WARC Live show.

"We are thrilled to have surpassed our campaign goal and grateful for the support of our community, including our generous campaign sponsors," said Carrie Thomas, Executive Director of United Way of Marshall County. "Thanks to the dedication and hard work of our donors, volunteers, and supporters, we can continue to make a positive impact on the lives of those in need in our community."

This year’s top ten companies were recognized for their leadership and outstanding contributions to the campaign: AlaTrade, Progress Rail, Citizens Bank & Trust, Howard Bentley Buick GMC, Publix, Paragon, Mitchell Grocery Corp, Peoples Independent Bank, Syncro and Propac.

Campaign Co-Chairs Steven Knowles and Cade Smith presented several awards at the event, including the Chairman's Gold Award (per capita giving of $125 or more), Silver Award (per capita gift of $75 - $124), and Bronze Award (per capita gift of $50 - $74). The Agency and Company Unity Awards were also presented to the companies and United Way partner agencies that achieved 100% participation.

These special awards of excellence were also presented at this year’s celebration event:

• The Best Employee Giving Campaign and Best Overall Campaign award was presented to AlaTrade for the largest overall employee campaign and top contributor for this year’s campaign.

• The Star Award was presented to Tenneco/DriV for the most improved workplace campaign.

• The Wendell R. Glassco Spirit of Giving Award was presented to Benefit Professionals, Inc and 401K Safe for exemplifying outstanding employee and corporate leadership giving in the community.

• The Live United Award was presented to Shirley Holland, Director of CASA of Marshall County, for her dedication and commitment to improving the lives of local residents.

• Excellence Awards were presented to this year’s Loaned Executives. This group consists of individuals from different agencies and organizations in Marshall County, who volunteer their time to help conduct and implement workplace campaigns and other campaign tasks. During the campaign, these volunteers work tirelessly to help United Way reach its fundraising goal. This year’s participants included: Valerie Clemons (Child Advocacy Center), Justin Helton (Family Services of North Alabama), Caleb Liverett (Peoples Independent Bank), Esterella Martinez (Peoples Independent Bank), Kelly Little (AlaTrade), Fatima Rios (Citizens Bank & Trust), Lori Smith (United Way/First Call for Help), Taylor Walker (Wayne Farms) and Janet Whitmore (Snead State Community College).

The United Way 2022 Annual Report was also presented to the community, highlighting the organization's achievements and impact over the past year. In addition, the campaign sponsors bpimedia group and CF Media were acknowledged and thanked for their support in producing the campaign materials. Their contribution was essential in ensuring the success of the campaign, and their involvement is greatly appreciated.

The event was thoughtfully catered by Papa Dubi's, with a delectable spread of food enjoyed by all attendees. Wendy's of Albertville generously sponsored the drinks. Gratitude is extended to both for their invaluable contribution to the event, which made it a memorable and enjoyable experience for everyone present. United Way of Marshall County would also like to thank the community for their ongoing support of the organization and its mission to improve lives and build a stronger community.

Through the support and efforts of many, United Way of Marshall County funds 19 partner agencies and programs that helped make our communities stronger. These agencies and programs include: 2-1-1 First Call for Help, 4-H Clubs of Marshall County, American Red Cross, Boy Scouts of America, CASA of Marshall County, Child Advocacy Center, Child Development Centers of Marshall County, Court Appointed Juvenile Advocates (CAJA), Domestic Violence Crisis Services, Family Services of North Alabama, Marshall County Foster and Adoptive Parents Association, Girl Scouts of North-Central Alabama, Marshall County Arc, Marshall County Guardianship Program, Marshall County Home Place, Marshall County Homeless Ministries, RSVP, Shepherd’s Cove Hospice and Shepherd’s Cove Hospice Camp HOPE.

For over 40 years, our dedicated volunteers and donors have been instrumental in researching the needs of our community and developing strategies to assist those who need it most, including children, families, and individuals. Through our funding of 19 partner agencies and programs, we are able to ensure the efficient use of donor dollars, making a significant impact in the lives of those in Marshall County. If you want to learn more about our mission and the work we do, please visit our website at www.unitedwaymarshall.org or find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/unitedwayofmarshallcounty. Join us in our efforts to improve the community and make a difference in the lives of those around us.