United Way tops $192,000 goal

For 2012, the United Way of Logan County set a stretch goal of $192,000. On Tuesday, LaVerne Dowding, Campaign Chair, unveiled the results –$192,499 –the largest amount ever raised by United Way of Logan County. During the celebration at the Masonic Temple, attended by over 170 volunteers and supporters, a number of Corporate and Individual Awards were presented.

-Corporate Spirit Awards were presented to Environmental Management, Inc and Guthrie Public Schools. Environmental Management, Inc, raised over $19,000 (an increase of $5,000 more than previous year), with ALL 46 employees contributed to the campaign, including 15 employees who were leadership givers ($500 or more). Guthrie Public Schools – had a 60 percent increase in total giving from the previous year in raising more than $8,000. Leadership provided opportunities to hear presentations by Partner Agencies and initiated a unique electronic pledging process.

-Outstanding Employee Campaign Coordinator was Kristal Flury, Environmental Management, Inc.  She scheduled numerous special activities to educate EMI employees about the United Way and the work of the 10 Partner Agencies.  Through her leadership a number of rallies and “fun” events were organized to motivate employees and increase awareness of what United Way does for the community and county.

-Volunteer of the Year Award was given to Tina Heyvaert for her involvement in United Way activities over a number of years.  This year Tina served as Vice Chair of the Community Investment Committee which reviews all applications for funding, suggests funding levels to the Board of Directors, and monitors the actual use of the funds by the Partner Agencies.

-Newcomer of the Year was presented to D.W. Converse.  D.W. is passionate about our county and about the United Way.  He led the Pacesetter Campaign this year, which kicked off the campaign with donations of over $42,000.  All employees of his company, Converse Surveying and Engineering, contributed to the United Way this year.

-Special Recognition was given  to Jon Gumerson (posthumously) in recognition of  his commitment to the United Way and dedication to “making a difference in the lives of residents of Logan County”.  Although Jon died in 2012, his focus, compassion and caring lives on in the mission and work of the United Way of Logan County.

Steve Gentling, President, United Way of Logan County recognized outgoing Board members whose term has expired: Debbie Brewer, Darrel Covington, Ned Detwiler, Jarrett George, Liz Jones and Bo Martin. Gentling said, “Through the vision of the Board of Directors, the energy of numerous volunteers, the daily efforts of the staff of the 10 partner agencies and the contributions of donors who provide the United Way funding, over 16,000 residents of Logan County received some support and assistance last year.  It is a wonderful example of individuals coming together and making an impact on the lives of many.  What a wonderful gift to give to our communities and to each other.  Congratulations and thanks to all involved!”