Looking Back, Moving Forward

2024 was a year of growth, impact, and renewed commitment for the United Way of Williams County. Together with our donors, partners, and volunteers, we strengthened support for local programs, invested in community needs, and expanded opportunities for our neighbors to thrive.

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.

Jeffrey Tonjes/The Bryan Times

When the Williams County Board of Health (WCBH) needed a new member, United Way’s Amy Kirby didn’t expect her name to be the one that came forward.

But after longtime board member Dee Custer retired, it was her community connections that led to the opportunity.

“Dee, who also served on our United Way board, had been on the health board for many years,” Kirby explained. “When she retired, she gave them my name.”

That recommendation soon led to a conversation with William County Health Commissioner Oscar Hernandez.

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.

Brian Koeller/The Bryan Times

Two local agencies that strive to improve the community are partnering to provide even better service to the county.

The United Way of Williams County is moving from its current office on East High Street to within the facility housing the YMCA in Bryan.