Jeffrey Tonjes / The Bryan Times
United Way of Williams County celebrated the close of its 2024 fiscal year recently with gratitude, transparency and a renewed commitment to strengthening the community it serves.
Executive Director Amy Kirby, who recently stepped into the role after three years with the organization, spoke about both the challenges and triumphs of the past year.
“During my time with United Way, first as executive assistant and now as executive director, I’ve seen firsthand the impact this organization has on the lives of our residents,” Kirby said. “Returning to Williams County after two decades away has given me a renewed appreciation for the strength, generosity and resilience of this community.”
The 2024 campaign raised more than $251,000 to support local programs in health, education and financial stability. Contributions came from several sources:
- Employee giving: $89,905
- Business contributions: $80,000
- Individual giving: $60,000
- Event revenue: $21,000
The largest workplace campaign came from Spangler Candy Co., with 72 donors pledging $47,939. Bard Manufacturing followed with $22,198. Daavlin/Phothera was recognized for the biggest increase, raising $10,795, a 44% jump from 2023.
“Our workplace campaign managers are incredible about talking to people about why giving is important,” Kirby said. “That’s not an easy task, and we just want to highlight everyone who makes it happen.”
Special events also boosted the campaign, with trivia nights, a Taylor Swift ticket raffle and the State Bank food truck fundraiser combining to raise more than $20,800.
In total, 25 local agencies and programs will benefit from the funds raised. That includes more than $27,500 directed to education, $48,000 toward financial assistance, and $60,000 to health-related programs.
Beyond the numbers, Kirby emphasized accountability and trust.
“Some people ask why they shouldn’t just give directly to an agency,” she said. “You could—but what United Way does is vet every single application. We go through financials, boards, succession plans and outcomes. We make sure your dollars are going to solid organizations that will be here tomorrow. That accountability allows agencies to focus on what they do best, helping people, while we help fundraise on their behalf.”
That accountability has also meant tough decisions inside the United Way itself. Kirby said cutting operating costs has been a priority since she stepped into leadership.
“In past years, only 46 cents of every dollar went back into the community. I thought that wasn’t good enough,” Kirby said. “Now we’re at 67%, and my goal is to push that to 75% or 80%. We want to be lean and transparent, and we want donors to know we are serious about getting more money directly to the people who need it.”
The annual meeting also recognized Volunteer of the Year and Board Member of the Year honorees, alongside dozens of leadership donors who contributed more than $500 each.
This year Christina Englehart was presented with an award for Board Member of the Year. Englehart is also the board president. Crystal Xie was presented an award for Volunteer of the Year.
Kirby said the recognition is important because generosity, whether from individuals, businesses or volunteers, fuels everything United Way does.
“Perhaps the most inspiring thing to me is that more than 630 people stepped forward to give,” she said. “That’s hundreds of neighbors saying, ‘I want to make a difference right here in Williams County.’ And when we put all of that generosity together, it creates incredible impact.”
Looking ahead, United Way enters fiscal year 2025 with a positive projected budget of $27,373 and reduced operating expenses of $78,710, nearly half of last year’s costs. That shift, Kirby said, ensures more donor dollars will be directed to community programs.
Since its founding in 1962, United Way of Williams County has raised more than $8.2 million for local programs. Kirby said the legacy of “neighbors helping neighbors” remains the driving force.
“As needs evolve, we’ll keep expanding outreach and building partnerships,” she said. “Whether it’s adjusting to immediate needs or preparing for the future, our commitment is the same: to unite people, resources and hope to make Williams County an even better place to live, work and thrive.”
The United Way of Williams County's next community fundraiser, Reverse Raffle, is Saturday, Oct. 4. Those interested in tickets should contact the United Way at 419-636-8603.