United Way Raises $4,331,713 for the Community!

United Way of the CSRA recently celebrated our great nation, our community, and the United Way volunteers, contributors and advocates at their 2009 Annual Meeting on February 24, 2009.  The event, with a patriotic theme of red, white and blue stars, was presented through the generous sponsorship of Savannah River Banking Company and Georgia Power.

Walt Dukes, 2008 Campaign Chair, revealed that this community raised $4,331,713 in the 2008 campaign.  These funds will now be allocated to over 60 health and human service programs to help people in need.  Mr. Dukes stated, “This year’s campaign proved to be a very exciting challenge. As we watched the results come in, some donations greatly exceeded last years while others decreased significantly due to company downsizing and concerns over the economy.”

Yet, the excitement was hard to conceal as the children from Heritage Academy Strings, under the direction of Gwen Elsey, entertained the audience with several melodies.  Funding for this violin program is furnished to these youngsters, ranging from 9-13 years of age, by the generous contributions of United Way supporters.  Specialist Alicia Lyman, Fort Gordon’s 2008 Service Member of the Year, led the pledge of Allegiance, and Miss Jaycie Ward, an 11 year old student at Redcliffe Elementary School, sang an impressive rendition of the National Anthem.  The Fort Gordon Color Guard presented the colors as the Fort Gordon Jazz Ensemble entertained guests with several patriotic tunes.  Dancers from Augusta West Dance Guild creatively revealed the final tally of campaign dollars raised in 2008.

Jeff Spears, 2008 Board Chair, introduced new board members and thanked outgoing members.  Mark Maund was named Board Chair for 2009 while Dr. Michael Ash was named the 2009 Campaign Chair. 

Tom Tynan, Vice President of Southern Nuclear Operating Company-Plant Vogtle, presented the 2008 Alvin W. Vogtle Volunteer of the Year Award to Michael Stephens.  Mr. Stephens was nominated by Friendship Community Center (FCC).  According to the nomination, Michael has faithfully served FCC for nine years.  Not only does he serve FCC, he also works with numerous other agencies, helping the young, elderly, disabled, veterans, and people just down in their luck.  His willingness and desire to make a difference in our community is the driving force in all his endeavors.  He is truly an outstanding volunteer who is beloved by all who know him.  Click here to view event photos.