Fifty-five years ago, volunteers hit the streets following the first Jackson County United Fund drive kickoff dinner.
With a goal of $69,700 to support 11 local agencies, then-President Don Bollinger and drive chairman George Boas began a county tradition that continues today.
That tradition brought the entire county together to support programs and services that touched the lives either directly — or indirectly — of most families in Jackson County.
“Today, Jackson County United Way fights for the health, education and financial stability of every person in the county,” said Sean Hildreth, resource development director. “The work is accomplished with partnerships and collaborations.”
The funds raised from the annual campaign go to support 20 certified community partners and their program work focused on their part of United Way’s mission.
Those partners are American Red Cross, Anchor House Family Assistance Center and Food Pantry, The Arc of Jackson County, Big Brothers Big Sisters, Boys & Girls Club of Seymour, Child Care Network, Girl Scouts of Kentuckiana, Girls Inc. of Jackson County, Human Services Inc., Hoosier Trails Council Boy Scouts of America, Meals on Wheels, Mental Health America of Jackson County, Read Jackson County, The Salvation Army, Turning Point and senior citizen centers in Brownstown, Crothersville, Freetown, Medora and Seymour.
“The success of each campaign rests on the generosity of Jackson County residents who care enough about children, the abused, the homeless, those with special needs, seniors and availability of emergency services to fight for our county and give,” Hildreth said.
Last year’s campaign raised $825,724, which was $15,724 over the $810,000 goal.
Jackson County United Way’s 55th anniversary celebration and REACH 55 Campaign Kickoff will be at 6 p.m. Sept. 5 at American Legion Post 89 in Seymour. The American Legion is a 55-year donor.
The event is being sponsored by Aisin USA and AVI Foodsystems.
Tickets are $15 per person or $25 for couples. Payment may be made over the phone, via check or a promise to pay at the door. If possible, RSVP to Marianne Willacker at [email protected] or 812-522-5450 today.
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Jackson County United Way’s 55th anniversary celebration and REACH 55 Campaign Kickoff will be at 6 p.m. Sept. 5 at American Legion Post 89 in Seymour.
The event is being sponsored by Aisin USA and AVI Foodsystems.
Tickets are $15 per person or $25 for couples. Payment may be made over the phone, via check or a promise to pay at the door. If possible, RSVP to Marianne Willacker at [email protected] or 812-522-5450 today.
For information on the United Way campaign, call Sean Hildreth at 812-522-5450. Donations may be mailed to P.O. Box 94, Seymour, IN 47274.
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