United Way sets $190K campaign goal
Photos by Tom Rivers: David Cook, president of the United Way of Orleans County, thanks volunteers and supporters of the annual fundraising appeal for the organization. Jessica Downey, the United Way executive director, joins Cook at the campaign kick off on Thursday evening.
MEDINA – The United Way of Orleans County has set a $190,000 campaign goal for its annual fund-raising appeal to support 16 agencies in the county. The money supports programs that serve youth, senior citizens, people with disabilities and people in crisis.
United Way supporters and agency leaders met on Thursday to kick off the campaign at the Leonard Oakes Estate Winery.
David Cook, United Way president in Orleans County, said the county is fortunate to have several businesses and committed residents who give to the campaign. The funds are important for several agencies to fulfill their mission in the county.
Mary Lee Knights is president of OCALS Learning Services, which provides literacy programs in the county. She said United Way funding was essential for the agency to start and then expand its services in the county.
Jessica Downey, the United Way director, said the United Way is determined to raise funds for the agencies, so they can continue their important work in the community.
“United Way is an easy way to donate to touch many agencies in our community,” she said.
She urged businesses, organizations and residents to give to the campaign. She said several businesses have been steady contributors in recent years, including Baxter Healthcare, Takeform Architectural Graphics, Talis Equity, BMP America and CRFS.
The United Way has a website and people can give online. Click here for more information.
The agencies that receive funding from the United Way include:
• 4-H Youth – Cornell Cooperative Extension, Arc of Orleans County Camp Rainbow, Arc of Orleans County Meals on Wheels & Nutri-Fair, Boy Scouts of America – Iroquois Trail Council, Inc., Christ Church Community Kitchen
• Community Action – Main Street Store Employment Support Project, GCASA, Hospice of Orleans Martin-Linsin Residence, Orleans County Adult Learning Services, Regional Action Phone
• Pathstone – Women’s Issues Now (WIN) Domestic Violence Program, Senior Citizens of WNY, YMCA, Ministry of Concern, Just Friends, Ministry of Concern, Last Resort and Town of Yates, Summer Recreation Program.
The United Way in January also started volunteering at the Christ Church Community Kitchen in Albion the second Friday each month. Downey and the United Way cook and serve the meals. United Way board members, their children and family have all volunteered, as well as employees from local businesses that support the United Way.
