The United Way of Wayne County 2021 Community Campaign officially wrapped up on December 31, 2021. The year began with a goal of raising $850,000 to impact over 17.000 lives across Wayne County. Despite the continued effects of the Covid-19 pandemic through 2021, the annual campaign was a success. While it is possible to have a few additional investments applied the first few days of 2022, together with major investors, residents, and businesses, United Way of Wayne County reached 90% of its goal. Equating to $765,000 raised to impact approximately 15,300 lives in Wayne County.

Savannah Barwick, the new Resource Development Director, shared a few words on the 2021 campaign; “Seeing the outpour of support and dedication in our community has been incredibly uplifting. I am not surprised Wayne County could unite and help us impact so many lives,’ Barwick said. “I was so thrilled to be able to see the impact we can make when we come together as a community. The Covid-19 Pandemic has continued to create challenges for everyone, and it is amazing to watch our community and residents continue to adapt and move forward. I hope for this continued success in 2022.”

This year’s campaign success is thanks in part to a collaborative Board of Directors and campaign volunteers and led by Campaign Chair, Bethany Perry Their efforts combined with the support of many others helped to facilitate employee campaigns at over 70 businesses and schools across Wayne County. By hosting an employee campaign, companies make it easy for their employees to give back by payroll deduction. These annual campaigns are the primary source of funding used to support the agencies and programs that are vital to this community. Each year the United Way of Wayne County strives to bring people together in the workplace to help build a stronger community through these campaigns. Every ounce of support, no matter the size, is vital to the success of our mission and goes a long way towards a positive impact on our county’s residents. 

Executive Director, Sherry Archibald, shares a brief message regarding this year’s campaign, “Thank you, Wayne County, for graciously supporting us to help improve the lives of thousands in our community in 2021. While the needs are stronger than ever, our non-profits exceed expectations, serving Wayne County citizens’. There were times I wondered how these Community Partners are going to be able to serve the needs of our community with all these challenges, yet they continue to rise to new heights and make it work,” says Archibald. “Our staff and Board of Directors are grateful to partner with so many non-profits making a difference. Our interest is to continue to create a strong partnership with them as we identify community needs and seek solutions. It is my hope that our community continues to join us in some capacity for our 2022 Campaign and help us support Wayne County.”