The United Way of Central Kansas opened its 2015 campaign Saturday night. The theme was “Lights, Camera, United Way in Action,” harking back to the glory days of Hollywood. The goal this year is $270,000, and the effort ends Dec. 31.
With 99 percent of the money raised staying in the communities served by UWCK, every contribution made can make a difference, UWCK Executive Director Julie Bugner Smith said. United Way of Central Kansas helps support 19 community agencies in Barton and Pawnee counties, as well as other programs such as the Born Learning Trail in Claflin and Great Bend, and the Dolly Parton Imagination Library in Ellinwood and Larned.
So, as you can see, the money raised goes to a lot of worthy causes. The funds are also becoming more and more necessary.
Many of the agencies UWCK serves also receive federal and/or state funding, as well as funding from various grants. These revenue sources are cutting back and the grant world is becoming more competative.
This all makes what the United Way does all that more important.
The campaign co-chairs are Laura and Jim Smith, Dr. Charlie and Denise Joslin and Dr. Perry and Krista Smith, and pacesetters chair Rick Chochon. These folks along with UWCK’s volunteer board carry a of the load for making sure the drive is successful.
But, referring back to the movie theme, the real stars are the area residents. If it weren’t for the donations and contributions from them, the campaign could not be successful.
“It takes everyone’s contribution, big and small to meet the goal,” Smith said. She is so right.
Last year’s drive hit its target. Let’s pull together this year for a equally powerful sequel.
For more information, call 620-792-2403 or visit www.uwck.org.
Dale Hogg