CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. – (CLARKSVILLENOW) Among 250 local supporters, United Way of the Greater Clarksville Region hosted its Annual Membership Meeting and Campaign Celebration at the Wilma Rudolph Event Center Thursday. Culminating this year’s game-changer campaign theme, the event reflected upon the organization’s long history and the local impact continued today by United Way community champions.
Reminiscent of the shared history, Board President Garnett Ladd and Past President Don Shrader delivered the news of this year’s fundraising total, $1,113,249.72 Dressed as the Monopoly mascot Uncle Pennybags and chauffeured by Ladd in a vintage car akin to the game piece.
“This year’s campaign began as we asked you all to join in the fight for the education, health and financial stability of local residents. You tackled the challenge and formed an incredible team that scored big wins in the lives of those struggling in our community. We are here now to cheer for your victories and thank you for your work, said Ginna Holleman, United Way CEO.
“At $13,000 over our $1.1 million goal, we are ecstatic to share all that you have achieved. This year’s total is the sum of 2017-2018 campaign revenue plus FY18 funding received from Montgomery County that was distributed in the spring 2017 allocations,” explained Campaign Chair Jim Manning. We are grateful to each individual, business and organization for your contributions. As we have seen over the course of history, needs continue to grow and a united front is more important today than ever.”
Annually, United Way presents campaign awards to recognize outstanding achievements of local contributors, volunteers and partners. Top honors were presented to Legends Bank for earning the coveted Ben C. Parks Award, recognizing the workplace partner with the Best Overall Campaign.
Other awards and recognitions were also presented including:
Robert R. Welch Founders Award: Al Fullerton
Highest Giving Campaign: Trane
Inspire Award: Austin Peay State University
Way to Grow: Bridgestone Metalpha
Ambassador’s Award: Mayor Jim Durrett
Volunteer Leadership Award: City of Clarksville
Campaign Spirit Award: City of Clarksville, Montgomery County and CMCSS
Outstanding Board Member of the Year: Darryl Nelson
Director’s Award: Legal Aid Society
Numerous other volunteers were recognized for their service, and incoming members of the Board of Directors were installed for a term of three years. Newly elected Directors and those re-elected include: Katy Wall Olita, Baton Nolan PLC; Ashley Jackson, Planters Bank; and Kyle Luther, First Advantage Bank.