The residents of Barton and Pawnee counties did it again, and then some.

United Way of Central Kansas Executive Director Julie Smith announced this past week that the 2017 fundraising drive had met its goal.

The campaign had a target of $275,000 and it met that mark. “This just shows how people here come together to help others,” Smith said.

It wasn’t easy this year. United Way of Central Kansas welcomed the City of Hoisington back into its fold, meaning there were more agencies that needed the UWCK’s help.

It took a little longer to hit the goal, but the important thing is that it was hit.

“With the hard work of our dedicated board members, community agencies, local businesses and individual donors, they will be able to support their 23 community partners, and continue their work with community impact programs,” Smith said.

“Thanks to the support of these programs, Pacesetter companies, payroll donors, and individual donors who believe in the work that UWCK does every day, they met their goal,” Smith said.  

Cochairs this year were Chuck and Meg Wilson, Kevin and Kista Holt, and Cole and Regan Reif, along with board members Desa Marmie-Behr, Mark Mingenback, John Cross, Dianne Call, Leslie Mingenback, Carol Dema, Regan Reif, Tatum Dunekack, Laura Smith, Jane Fox, Ron Smith, Tama Hanson, Kevyn Soupiset, Becca Maxwell, Karen Van Brimmer and Bill Lowry. 

“We are incredibly grateful for our giving community,” Smith said. “When you give to United Way you can rest assured that your money is staying local.”

Smith has always said how impressed she is with the compassion of area residents. This campaign is just another example of how we can come together to help our own.

Dale Hogg