Jeffrey Tonjes/ The Bryan Times
The Williams County United Way is working to stretch every donor dollar as the organization prepares for another year of supporting local agencies and families.
Executive Director Amy Kirby said the nonprofit is funding 25 programs this cycle, in addition to its three internal initiatives: the Let Me Play Fund, the We Care Cabinet and the Dolly Parton Imagination Library.
“This year we had a $275,000 ask, which was the biggest one we’ve ever had,” Kirby said. “But we only had about $120,000 to put back out into the community. That’s why we’ve made changes, moving offices, shifting my role to part-time and cutting overhead wherever we can, because we want every possible dollar going back to the agencies people care about.”
The United Way’s fiscal year runs April through March, giving the organization time to raise funds before distributing quarterly payments to agencies beginning the following spring. This year’s goal for 2026-2027 is $250,000, and Kirby said they are on track to meet it.
“We rely heavily on workplace campaigns, leadership donors and special events,” she said, pointing to Trivia Night, Boots and Bow Ties and the Reverse Raffle as major fundraisers. “We make sure our internal programs are fully funded so that donor contributions can go directly to agencies serving the community.” Kirby emphasized that need in Williams County remains high. “Things aren’t getting any less expensive. People aren’t lazy or irresponsible—they’re just trying to make ends meet,” she said. “Nobody wants to be in the position where they have to call us, but life happens. You lose a job, your car breaks down, you get sick. That’s when we’re grateful our agencies are there to help.”
Beyond funding, Kirby said the United Way is also strengthening community representation.
“We have a really dedicated board filled with people from all over Williams County,” she said. “A lot of funding comes from Bryan, but we know our other communities are just as important. We want to make sure resources are reaching those areas, too.”
Despite economic uncertainty, Kirby said she remains optimistic.
“It’s a machine, for sure—but one driven by compassion and love,” she said. “We’re always asking, what can we do better, and what can we do more of? That’s what keeps us moving forward.”