Monday marks an extremely important day for United Way of Sampson County. The 2012 fundraising campaign kicks off with a goal of $175,000. Although donations will be accepted at any time, the campaign will end in December.
“Our board feels that this is a very attainable goal,” said UW executive director Nancy Carr. “We could use more because the need is so great, but we want the public to feel the success of meeting the goal set. It would be great to go over the top in our fundraising this year.”
Carr stressed the importance of giving to United Way because all the funds raised here, she said, remain here to assist the various agencies the local non-profit supports financially.
“There is so much need from those partnering agencies that we help. They have to give account of the funds we grant to them and they have done an excellent job of doing just that…using the money we have given to them to help those they serve who are in such great need of help,” said Carr. “Especially in this time when the economy is down, assistance from governmental and private sources are down for our partnering agencies too. So the more we can raise, the more we will be able to provide for their needs. That is what United Way is … supporting our local agencies with local funds from the local communities,” added the UW director.
“We are extremely excited about the 2012 campaign kickoff. I am appreciative of the fact that United Way has maintained a vision even in the midst of these tough economic times. Our agencies need us now like never before and I believe that with the help of the community we can continue to thrive,” expressed the Rev. Thomas R. Farrow Jr., co-chairman and pastor of First Baptist Church, 900 College St., Clinton. “I am also appreciative of the opportunity to work with such a committed and dedicated board. We encouraging everyone to help us make this a successful campaign!” remarked Farrow.
Dr. Ethan Lenker, co-chairman of the UW campaign and superintendent of Sampson County Schools, shared his feelings about United Way and how it impacts the citizens of Sampson County.
“I have worked with the United Way for a number of years, going back to my previous work. It is an honor to work with this organization. What I like about United Way of Sampson County is that all the money we raise stays in Sampson County and directly helps the citizens and kids of Sampson County,” cited Lenker. “I hope that people understand how much of a positive effect their donations have on the future successes of Sampson County and will support United Way,” amended the superintendent.
Carr explained that United Way of Sampson County board is a group of people from diverse backgrounds who have come together as one to help many people in our community as they can.
“Being a part of helping our community be the best it can be is one of the most rewarding and humbling challenges, but it is what we’re all about. Helping others in need is what it is all about,” stated the executive director.
“Helping our neighbor is what our community does so well, and through UWSC we really can make a difference in someone’s life,” noted Dottie McCullen, UW president.
UWSC works to advance the common good by focusing on education, income and health. According to information provided by its board, these are the building blocks for a good life — a quality education that leads to a stable job, enough income to support a family through retirement and good health.
“We invite everyone to be part of the change. Together, united, we can inspire hope and create opportunities for a better tomorrow. That is what it means to LIVE UNITED,” shared McCullen.
Current partner agencies that contributions from Sampson citizens help include: The Sampson Crisis Center; Girls Scouts-North Carolina Coastal Pines; Sampson County 4-H; Clinton Area Foundation for Education, C.A.F.E.; Boys Scouts of America Tuscarora Council; Sampson County Fireman’s Association; Sampson County Friends of Education; Breast and Cervical Cancer Control Program; Christmas Cheer Program; Wheelchair Ramp Program; U Care; Fitness Renaissance Program; and Delta Sigma Theta.
Carr explained that there are several ways in which a person can contribute to United Way of Sampson County.
“If your company has a payroll deduction program, enroll in their program. It is a great way to have the money deducted from your check. Anyone can make a direct payment by coming by the office with cash, check or money order and we even accept credit card donations. We also allow people to honor or memorialize someone with their gifts. Donations can even be designated to go to the campaign goal or a specific partner agency. All we ask is that you try to make a donation to help,” stressed the UW director.
The United Way board urges anyone interested to give, advocate and volunteer. Members also remind donors that every gift, no matter how small, is important and that the money given in Sampson County stays in Sampson County.
Board members also stressed that they need people to get involved and advocate, to use their voice. Anyone who is passionate about education, income and health are urged to speak out and make some noise so others will notice. Finally the board asks that people volunteer. They even have a youth group named Youth United.
To donate or for more information call or contact United Way of Sampson County by phone or fax 910-592-4263; mail P. O. Box 1677, Clinton NC 28329; online at unitedwaysampson.org or visit www.unitedwaysampson.org.
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