Another year, another successful fundraising campaign for the United Way.
The United Way announced a hefty fundraising goal this year of $555,000 for their annual campaign drive. During the annual campaign celebration, Wednesday afternoon the United Way of the Flint Hills was happy to announce the goal was reached and then some.
The final total for this year’s campaign? $555,415. Campaign Drive Chair Vicki Brooks says she was determined they would reach their goal no matter what.
United Way of the Flinthills Director Jami Reever says although they never know the outcome until the end, they always have faith the community will come through.
Following the total announcement, Brooks was recognized for her hard work as this year’s drive chair. The recognition included a special thank you video from co-workers and family members and a heartwarming surprise when Brooks’ daughters and husband showed up with flowers in hand to honor her.
She says it was a very welcomed surprise.
The campaign total was not the only announcement made during the celebration. The United Way also announced their annual award winners.
Business Partner of the Year was awarded to ESB Financial, this year’s Community Partner of the Year was the Cerebral Palsy Research Foundation, Hills Pet Nutrition received the Spirit Award and Tyson was named the Campaign Coordinator of the Year. This year’s inductee into the Community Builder Hall of Fame was Simmons Pet Food.
Simmons saw a participation increase this year of 71% and individually raised a total of $33,000. Simmons now joins other Hall of Fame inductees including Emporia State University, Tyson, and Wolf Creek Nuclear Operating Plant.
Funds from the annual campaign benefit 24 different area organizations and roughly 13,000 individuals throughout the year.
Photos by Tagan Trahoon/KVOE News
{gallery}United Way Campaign Celebration{/gallery}
