United Way at Work in your Community

As United Way of Randolph County launches into campaign mode, you will see some distinguishing factors that are geared at educating the community on the overall “Impact” United Way has on the community.

“This is a new approach. We want our community to understand how our 23 partner agencies “impact” the overall health and wellbeing of our community. Instead of focusing at what the community can do to help United Way, we want to show and educate the community on the difference United Way makes in the lives of our citizens on a daily basis,” said April Thornton, co-chair of the United Way Campaign.

“I think people would be shocked to know that on average 160 people in Randolph County are served everyday through one of the United Way Agencies – I know I was. A total of 60,032 people in our community utilized United Way services last year. That’s almost half of our entire county population. United Way makes a difference each and everyday – the impact is huge,” said Cooper Thornton, co-chair United Way Campaign.

The story of United Way can best be told through the voices of those who have used the services. United Way reached 60,032 individuals of all ages, socioeconomic and ethnic backgrounds. Below are a few examples of the impact being made by United Way in the lives of people across our county:

• 1,261 children received support through academic tutoring in and after school. 84% showed improved academic performance.
• 201 women and children fleeing from domestic violence found a caring ear. 87% went to housing that was free of abuse.419 homebound seniors received meals on wheels. 100% reported that they felt safer in their home because this program.
• 24,179 individuals received support with food, clothing or paying a bill during a time of crisis. These families also received support to help them avoid getting into crisis again.

“These are just some of the ways United Way improves our community. And if you take just a moment I bet you can recall a friend, neighbor or family member who has benefited from one of the many United Way partner agencies,” said April Thornton.

Joining the leadership team of April and Cooper Thornton this year for the annual campaign, are Reynolds and Mary Lisk, long-time Asheboro residents and active community volunteers, they are chairing the 2007 Uwharrie Society this is a division of our campaign that recognizes outstanding Leadership Gifts of $1,000 or more. Said Reynolds and Mary Lisk, “We are strong believers in our local United Way. Our support of the United Way of Randolph County touches people of all ages in our community.”

Chairing our Alexis De Tocqueville Society are long time supporters of the United Way of Randolph County and par excellence volunteers, Bill and Ann Hoover, the Alexis De Tocqueville group is recognized for excellence in leadership of gifts of more than $10,000 and more. As Bill and Ann stated "One gift to the United Way is our way to touch the lives of many. We believe in the United Way and its agencies - they work diligently to help families in need thorough both your financial support and volunteer support."

Said, Mac Whatley President of the United Way of Randolph County “We have been able to accomplish more and more for our community over the last half century by partnering up with committed campaign leaders and service agencies, combining our individual efforts to make donor and volunteer contributions go farther. Good local teamwork is what makes us succeed.”

Once again to help create excitement and increase participation in the campaign, Dan Lackey with Asheboro Nissan Asheboro Honda has donated a car. “We are pleased to build upon on our tradition of good corporate citizenship in Randolph County, and to offer this opportunity for our community to celebrate the generosity of the many individuals who give to the United Way.” The winner will have their choice of a 2008 Honda Fit or a Nissan Versa. Anyone who donates $100 to the United Way of Randolph County and registers will be eligible to win.

Elizabeth Mitchell, chief professional officer of United Way of Randolph County, says “United Way of Randolph County is fortunate to have such a distinguished leadership team in place that will help us reach our goal of serving our community.” As the excitement begins won’t you join the United Way of Randolph County in doing “What matters most in our community” by donating a gift to the United Way of Randolph County in support of those less fortunate than ourselves.