United Way Campaign Goes Virtual

The United Way of Knox County will officially Kick-Off the 2020 Campaign on September 18, 2020, with the Campaign Theme this year: Eat Local, Shop Local, Spend Local and Donate Local, We can do this Knox County!

“We are committed more than ever to partnering and support local businesses who support United Way,” remarked Kelly Brenneman, Executive Director. “Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the look of the campaign will be much different. Usually Campaign Week is filled with events, educational and volunteer opportunities, and leads to a breakfast or luncheon.”

“2020 is a Campaign year like no other. Being mindful of public safety, our staff really stepped up and developed some exciting, innovative and educational approaches to make this campaign unique, while still engaging our Knox County communities” remarked Brenneman.

“We have partnered with Kokosing River Productions to produced short 60-90 second videos, showcasing agencies and programs that United Way funds. These videos will be posted daily throughout September. Our corporate partners have also stepped up and purchased or donated $100 gift cards from local restaurants and businesses to be used for our $5 Buck Friday events. Every Friday, community members are welcome to donate $5 dollars to be entered to win a $100 gift card. On Sundays, there will be a Silent Auction Sunday. Businesses have donated gift cards, purses, overnight stays and other unique items for online auction. We believe that these two new events will keep everyone connected to the campaign as they will run every Friday and Sunday through December,” said Brenneman. Both $5 Buck Friday and Silent Auction Sunday items will be featured online at uwayknox.org and on the United Way Facebook Page. Items will be available for pick-up at 305 East High Street by appointment the week following their online feature.

In 2020 United Way partnered with 17 local agencies to fund 25 programs, in addition to offering United Way coordinated programs such as The Imagination Library, Crunch Out, Free Tax Preparation Assistance, and After School Tutoring and Enrichment programs. This year United Way also announced a grant with the Area Development Foundation to create a Career Navigator position serving area schools. United Way anticipates an even greater need in 2021 as agencies encounter the new need for Personal Protective Equipment and other program adjustments.

United Way of Knox County is a cornerstone of community wellness and success, strategically connecting partners and resources to community needs in order to measurably impact the quality of the lives of Knox County residents. For more information visit uwayknox.org or call 740.397.5721.

Information courtesy of United Way of Knox County