The Vicksburg Community Schools staff has kicked off the Vicksburg United Way campaign with its first report of donations at $1,378 just a few days into its strong start. The goal for 2014 is $33,000 in Vicksburg, while the overall goal of the United Way of the Battle Creek and Kalamazoo region is $14.5 million.
Tonya Nash, the community education director, reported these results at the organizing meeting of the local committee as they get geared up for the fall campaign led by Laura Howard. The funds raised by this hard-charging group stay in the community to support outreach services at South County Community Services, Boy Scouts, Generous Hands, rocket football, the library, and summer recreation through the school. Others on the committee include Danna Downing, Gen Landtroop, Carol Lohman, Tim Moore, and Sue Moore.
When donors give to the overall campaign, the money goes to help other agencies who are tapped by area residents when they need help, such as Constance Brown Hearing Center, Family & Children’s Services, and Senior Services, according to Howard who is Bronson Vicksburg Hospital’s director.
The greater United Way of Battle Creek and Kalamazoo is targeting its dollars on education, income and health. They have spotlighted early education for children from birth to five years, and food insecurity. The kickoff is September 16, with another sweepstakes program for all donors who make a new donation of $50 or more or increase their donation by $25 from 2013.