FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 25, 2012

2011 Campaign UWSC Award Winners Announced

The following is a list of award winners from the United Way of Sumner County 2011 Campaign Awards Breakfast, held at Bluegrass Yacht and Country Club in Hendersonville.

Terry Colwell Award - (Volunteer of the Year)
2011 Winner - Pat Gizelar
Since1983, this award has been presented annually to a United Way of Sumner County volunteer who has distinguished herself/himself over the past year through his/her dedication and efforts on behalf of United Way of Sumner County. Pat Gizelar has been volunteering for United Way of Sumner County for about 20 years in the allocations area. She joined the Executive Allocations Committee four years ago. Her work with agencies on an individual basis to help them understand our funding model, as well as to assist them in developing their annual outcomes, has been deeply appreciated. She joined the United Way Board of Directors in 2011; first filling a one year term as the Executive Allocations Committee Chair and now, this year, as a full board member. With her vast computer skills, she offered to "mine" our database for past donors who have not given in the past five years. She spent countless hours working on this project, which then allowed the United Way staff to solicit these past donors. Even though she considers herself retired, it is difficult to find a time when she is not engaged in a worthwhile project to give back to the community. United Way of Sumner County is indeed blessed to be the beneficiary of Pat's dedication, hard work, knowledge, and caring heart.

Torchbearer Award - (Highest employee giving)
2011 Winner - Publix Super Markets: Gallatin, Goodlettsville, and Hendersonville stores
The Torchbearer Award is given annually to the workplace campaign that had the highest employee giving among all campaigns. This award does NOT include any corporate match or donation. Publix won this year's award by raising $62,428 from its employees, who had more than 70 percent participation at each of their three locations and an overall average gift of more than $266.

David Brown Parrish Award - (Highest per capita giving by partner agency)
2011 Winner - Portland C.A.R.E.S.
David Brown Parrish is a retired Sumner County school teacher and lives in Gallatin. Mr. Parrish was very instrumental in helping many of our partner agencies throughout the years in a voluntary capacity. This award was established in his name because of his spirit of volunteerism, and it honors the United Way of Sumner County partner agency with the highest per capita giving among all of our agencies in the annual campaign. For the 2011 Campaign, Portland C.A.R.E.S. had an average gift of $171 per donor as well as 100% participation!
 

Hugh Carpenter Award - (Best overall workplace campaign)
2011 Winner - Hendersonville Medical Center
Hugh Carpenter spent his life in the service to others. He made it his goal to befriend those with whom he came into contact and was very instrumental in the formation of the United Way of Sumner County. We are proud to be able to memorialize his spirit of giving through this award. The Hugh Carpenter applicants were very dedicated to our United Way and we thank them. Hendersonville Medical Center utilized campaign best practices by having 10 group meetings for all employees that featured presentations from many of our partner agencies. The reception area of their facility was decorated with information from our agencies, campaign tracking thermometers, and a call to give. With a theme of "Caring for the Community," the campaign received support from the CEO in the form of encouragement letters to all employees and thank you notes to those who participated. When the campaign was over, all employees were invited to participate in a series of "Thank You" events to express appreciation for their efforts. At the end of the day, the pro-active approach of personal and frequent engagement used during this year's campaign made a difference. The number of givers more than doubled, and employee giving increased 53%.

Best Campaign Kick Off/Appreciation Event
2011 Winner - ITW Dynatec
This award recognizes the campaign that had the most creative launch or conclusion to their workplace campaign. ITW Dynatec employed a Hawaiian theme to thank its employees for their support of United Way. From Tiki torches, palm trees and ukulele serenades, to a Hawaiian fashion show, hulu-hoop contest, and pig roast bar-b-que luncheon, this over-the-top event thrilled employees and left everyone with a smile on their face.

Most Innovative Campaign
2011 Winner - Hoeganaes
This award recognizes the workplace campaign that best utilizes unique and innovative approaches to engaging employees in their fundraising activity. Hoeganaes utilized a wide variety of outreach activities to engage employees in this year's campaign, starting with letters of support sent to employees' homes and personal phone calls. The campaign began with a series of Campaign Kick-off/Veterans Day lunches for workers. Numerous events, including breakfast bake sales, pinto bean lunches, raffles, and a last-chance hot dog sale, provided additional opportunities for everyone to get involved. Catered dinners featuring stories from an employee with firsthand experiences involving partner agencies provided a personal connection to the work done by United Way. From start to finish, this campaign went more than an extra mile.

Leadership Givers Award - (Workplace with the highest percentage of leadership givers)
2011 Winner - Publix Super Markets: Gallatin, Goodlettsville, and Hendersonville Stores
The company with the highest percentage of leadership givers within their organization works very hard to solicit those gifts. In Sumner County, our leadership level begins at $500 a year, and those leadership contributions have proven to be significant to our campaign. Publix earned this year's award by having 41 of their employees giving at the leadership level.

Most Improved Campaign Award
2011 Winner - Comast: Gallatin and White House locations
To qualify for this award, the applicants must demonstrate how they were able to significantly improve their campaign over the previous year. Factors considered include: improving participation rates; increasing overall donations; creativity in planning the campaign and overall success from the prior years' campaigns. Comcast earned this year's award by implementing employee meetings that included breakfast cooked by supervisors. The two Sumner County Comcast locations saw more than a 100% increase in contributions and more than 5 times the number of campaign participants over 2010.

Most Improved School Campaign Award
2011 Winner - T.W. Hunter Middle School
T.W. Hunter Middle School raised the bar in terms of turning around a workplace campaign, boosting contributions by factor of 10 and registering six times the number of campaign participants from 2010.

James H. Hawkins Award - (100% participation in a workplace campaign)
2011 Winners 
Community Child Care Services
Gallatin Day Care Center
Hendersonville Area Chamber of Commerce
Mid Cumberland Human Resouces Agency
Nurses For Newborns of Tennessee
Portland CARES
Rucker-Stewart Middle School
United Way of Sumner County

Bronze Campaign Award - (Employee Per Capita Gift of $40 - $59.99)
2011 Winners
Aladdin Temp-Rite
Cumberland Electric Membership Corporation
E. B. Wilson High School
Green Bank/Capital Bank
HCA, including Hendersonville Medical Center
Kroger Store #571 at Glenbrook
Mid Cumberland Human Resources Agency
ServPro Industries
Volunteer State Bank

Silver Campaign Award - (Employee Per Capita Gift of $60 - $79.99)
2011 Winners

Bank of America
Comcast
First Tennessee Bank
Hoeganaes
Sumner Academy Inc.

Gold Campaign Award - (Employee Per Capita Gift of $80 and above)

2011 Winners 

American Security Bank & Trust

AT&T

Community Child Care Services

Enterprise Car Sales - Hendersonville

Enterprise Rent-A-Car - Gallatin

Enterprise Rent-A-Car - Hendersonville

Fifth Third Bank

Gallatin Day Care Center

ITW CIP

ITW Dynatec

Kirby Building Systems

Nationwide Insurance Co.

Nurses for Newborns of Tennessee

Portland CARES

Publix Super Market #1141, Goodlettsville

Publix Super Market #1033, Gallatin

Publix Super Market #119, Hendersonville

R.R. Donnelley & Sons

The Farmers Bank

United Way of Sumner County

Chairman's Elite Club - (Campaigns with an average gift of $52 or more
AND 51% or better employee participation)
2011 Winners -
 

New Members
AT&T
Kroger, Marketplace
Kroger, Glenbrook
Enterprise Car Rental - Gallatin

Sustaining Members

American Security Bank & Trust

Community Child Care

Cumberland Electric Membership Corp.

E.B. Wilson High School

Enterprise Car Sales - Hendersonville

First Tennessee Bank

Gallatin Day Care

Hendersonville Area Chamber of Commerce

ITW CIP

ITW Dynatec

Kirby Building Systems

Nationwide Insurance

Nurses for Newborns of Tennessee

Portland CARES

Publix Super Market #1033, Gallatin

Publix Super Market #1141, Goodlettsville

Publix Super Market #119, Hendersonville

Sumner Academy

The Farmers Bank

United Way of Sumner County

Volunteer State Bank

 

 

Regina Bartlett Fundraiser of the Year Award
2011 Inaugural Winner - Regina Batlett
This is the first year for the Regina Bartlett Fundraiser of the Year Award. It is named in honor of its first recipient, Hendersonville Medical Center CEO and 2011 United Way of Sumner County Campaign Chair Regina Bartlett. This award will be given annually to an individual or group that achieves distinction through their direct impact in the area of fundraising. Regina's direct involvement in the Hendersonville Medical Center United Way Campaign resulted in increased giving and participation. Her outreach to professionals in her field produced many new United Way givers, and her personal efforts as part of the "It's Just $50!" fundraising campaign generated an additional crop of new donors and topped all program participants in terms of dollars raised.

 

 

 

 

 

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
APRIL 24, 2012

United Way Raises Record $715,447.90 in 2011 Campaign

With the support of more than 4,100 donors who stepped up to make a difference in the quality of life in their community, United Way of Sumner County established a new fundraising record during its 2011 charitable giving campaign.

According to United Way officials, the 2011 Campaign raised $715,447.90 in Sumner County by its March 31, 2012, closing date, erasing the organization's previous fundraising record of $714,066 set in 1999. The 2011 total is an increase of $21,004 over 2010 figures, and it surpassed the organization's stated goal of raising $715,000. The three percent increase seen in 2011 follows an 11 percent increase recorded during the 2010 campaign.

"Setting a new record for United Way of Sumner County fundraising is exciting, but the real impact of this achievement is the help it will provide to Sumner County residents in need over the coming year," said Hendersonville Medical Center CEO Regina Bartlett, the 2011 United Way of Sumner County campaign chair. "Because of the efforts of our volunteers, campaign coordinators, donors and staff, more than 50,000 Sumner County residents will receive needed assistance from our 36 partner health and human service agencies. Without the generosity of our friends, neighbors, and coworkers, many of those needs would not be addressed. We are extremely thankful for the way our community has stepped up to make Sumner County a better place to live for all of us."

United Way of Sumner County President/CEO Dana M. Given said two consecutive years of fundraising increases is just a start for the local charitable organization.

"We were fortunate to add a small number of new workplace campaigns in 2011, but we know there are more businesses across the county we can reach," Given said. "Even though many of our existing campaigns reported substantial increases in giving, we are already working to add more new campaigns and donors in 2012 to meet the growing needs seen by our partner agencies. As we work to inform the community about the needs in our county and the steps United Way and its partners are taking to address them, we hope to continue setting new records for many years to come."

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 2, 2012

 United Way to announce fundraising total, honor top volunteers and fundraisers at April 24 Awards Breakfast

United Way of Sumner County will officially announce its 2011 fundraising total at the organization’s annual Campaign Awards and Appreciation Breakfast, set for 7:30-9:00 a.m. on Tuesday, April 24, at the Bluegrass Yacht and Country Club in Hendersonville.

In addition to revealing how much money was raised for the 36 nonprofit health, education, and human service agencies supported by United Way of Sumner County, the event will focus on recognizing and honoring the volunteers, businesses, and individuals who helped make the 2011 fundraising campaign a success.

“The fundraising work is over for the 2011 campaign, but the anticipation is only starting to build about our final total,” United Way of Sumner County President/CEO Dana M. Given said. “We still have some work to do to close out our books even though the campaign is technically finished, so we will not have a final figure to announce until our awards breakfast. No matter what that total is, it has been a fantastic year. We are so thankful for our volunteers, campaign coordinators, workplace campaign hosts, and everyone who has played a role in getting us to this point.”
While Given is not ready to announce a final campaign total, she did say the amount of money raised during the 2011 campaign exceeded $700,000 and the $686,062 raised during the 2010 campaign, marking the second consecutive year of increased giving by local residents. Final campaign closeout activities will reveal whether the 2011 campaign met or exceeded our $715,000 goal for the year.

The 2011 Awards and Appreciation Breakfast will include the presentation of awards for volunteer of the year, fundraiser of the year, best overall workplace campaign, most innovative campaign, best campaign kick-off/appreciation event, most-improved campaigns, highest employee giving, highest percentage of leadership giving, and workplace campaign coordinators. 
Make your plans now to attend the 2011 United Way of Sumner County Awards and Appreciation Breakfast from 7:30-9:00 a.m. on Tuesday, April 24, at the Bluegrass Yacht and Country Club in Hendersonville. Tickets are $12.50 each, and they may be reserved online now at http://www.unitedwaysumner.org/.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 5, 2012

United Way Enters Final Month of Fundraising Campaign

Depending on the circumstances, 31 days can be an eternity, or the blink of an eye. For United Way of Sumner County staff and volunteers, the month of March will represent both.
 
As of March 1, the local charity has raised $672,000 during its 2011 campaign, which means only $43,000 more needs to be raised before March 31 to reach the organization's goal of $715,000. If the goal is reached, it will mark the best fundraising campaign in the 35-year history of the organization. According to United Way of Sumner County President/CEO Dana M. Given, the final four weeks of the campaign are critical in more ways than one.
 
"It is important to us that we reach our goal, and setting a new fundraising record for our United Way would be very exciting," Given said. "However, it is the positive impact that can be made in our community with those additional dollars that is the most important thing to us. The needs in our community are growing, and every additional dollar we raise will help meet those needs."
Given says raising the additional $43,000 needed to reach goal in only 31 days is doable, but she says time is running out.
 
"This is a hectic time of year for us," Given said. "In addition to wrapping up this campaign, we are recruiting and training the volunteers who will determine how much money each of our partner health and human service agencies will receive in the coming year. A month is not much time to raise $43,000, and it will fly by. On the other hand, this month can seem like an eternity as we wait to see the final amount we will have available to provide to our partner agencies.

"It is my hope that there are many people in Sumner County who have planned to donate during this campaign who have maybe just put it off to the last minute. If that is the case, now is the time to give in order to make a difference in our community. You can visit our website, www.unitedwaysumner.org, to find out more about United Way of Sumner County, our partner agencies, and to make a donation.

"Our 36 partner agencies are straining to meet the needs of Sumner Countians seeking assistance with rent, utilities, medical bills and food. Giving to United Way means a family will be able to keep their home until the economy allows the start of a more stable job; a senior adult will have a daily nutritious meal, even when unforeseen medical bills strain their fixed income; and a child will receive learning opportunities that will increase his or her chance of graduating from high school. Without United Way funds, many of these happy endings will fail to materialize. As it has done many times in the past, we hope this community will step up again and help us continue the process of improving the quality of life for everyone in Sumner County."

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 3, 2012

New members join United Way of Sumner County board
Annual retreat includes look ahead, steps to reach fundraising goal

Gallatin, TN – With an eye on improving the quality of life for all local residents, members of the United Way of Sumner County Board of Directors gathered on Jan. 30 to take part in their annual planning retreat.
 
Now 26 members strong, the Board welcomed 10 new members, discussed its focus for the coming year, learned concepts for engaging the community, examined the structure of its cadre of volunteers, and took steps to push its  2011 fundraising campaign total toward the organization’s $715,000 goal.
 
“I think this is one of the most successful retreats we have had,” United Way of Sumner County President/CEO Dana M. Given said. “Our Board is excited about the opportunities ahead of us, and members are stepping up make sure we finish our 2011 campaign on a strong note while simultaneously making plans for an even more exciting 2012 campaign. We have a great Board, and their commitment to making a difference in Sumner County is very apparent.”
 
Board officers for 2012 are Greg Gray, Chair; Jud Broome, Chair-Elect; Mark Lowhorn, Treasurer; and Michele Owens, Secretary and Board Ethics Officer. Division chairs for 2012 are Regina Bartlett, Fundraising; Pat Gizelar, Fund Distribution; John McIntosh, Outreach; and Jud Broome, Operations. According to Gray, 2012 is full of opportunities for the organization.
 
“It is my honor and privilege to serve as the 2012 United Way of Sumner County Board Chair,” Gray said. “Having served on United Way allocations committees, as campaign chair, and as a board member, I have witnessed an organization that has continually improved. I believe the consistent efforts of our past chairs, board members, staff and volunteers have positioned us to take advantage of great opportunities to grow our fundraising to meet the needs of our partner agencies and the community, and I am looking forward to being a part of that.”
 
With a completion date of March 31, United Way of Sumner County’s 2011 fundraising campaign has raised approximately $650,000. Needing only $65,000 more to reach its $715,000 goal, Given said the Board took steps at its retreat to get personally involved in pushing the organization beyond its target.
 
“The most we have ever raised is about $714,000,” Given said. “Knowing that the needs in our community are growing and that reaching our goal is so important to our partner agencies and the people they serve, the Board voted to launch a fundraiser that will involve its members, our volunteers, our supporters, and members of our partner agencies. With more than 130 people invited to participate, the goal is for each person to raise a minimum of $1,000 by securing $50 donations from at least 20 of their friends, family members, neighbors, and coworkers. In addition
to moving us toward our fundraising goal, the project will increase awareness about United Way of Sumner County, who we are, and what we do to improve the quality of life across the county.”
Given said the top fundraiser in the effort, which runs through March 2, will be recognized with an annual award to be named in their honor at the organization’s awards breakfast on April 24.
 
“This is a great opportunity for everyone who has not had the chance to give through a workplace campaign or other activity to help others in our community,” Given said. “I hope everyone who knows one of our Board members or other volunteers and supporters will help them in their efforts by making a contribution during this march to our campaign finish line. Every contribution brings us closer to making history, and every dollar really does make a difference in making our county a better place to live.”

Members of the 2012 United Way of Sumner County Board of Directors are:

• Greg Gray, Chair – Leadership Vision Group
• Jud Broome, Chair-Elect – ITW-Dynatec
• Mark Lowhorn, Treasurer – Mark Lowhorn, CPA
• Michele Owens, Secretary – Capital Bank
• Don Ames – Business Improvement Group
• Regina Bartlett – Hendersonville Medical Center
• Greg Baugh – Strategic Financial Partners
• Mark Bristol – ServPro
• Leisa Byars – Goddard School, Village Day Spa
• Karen Celsor – Sumner Bank & Trust
• Laura Cole – The Farmer’s Bank
• Marty Cook – Bone McAllester Norton, PLLC
• Matt Corcoran – Publix Supermarkets
• Tina Davis – Community Volunteer
• Justin Fontenot – Fifth Third Bank
• Johnny Garrett – Bone McAllester Norton, PLLC
• Pat Gizelar – Retired, Deloitte & Touche
• Betty Hilgadiack – Retired, Sumner County Schools
• Jerry Keen – Commodore Express
• Fran Marcou – InnLink
• John McIntosh – Retired Director, H.A.T.S.
• Amanda Runnels – Hendersonville Area Chamber of Commerce
• Joe Thompson – City of Gallatin
• Dr. Jenny Uhl – Orgain Eye Care
• Mark Walker – Farm Bureau
• John Wilkinson – Keller Williams Realty

For more information about the United Way of Sumner County, giving online, volunteer opportunities, and partner agencies, visit http://www.unitedwaysumner.org/

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 6, 2012

Raise Your Hand Tennessee is Launched

NASHVILLE, TN—Today, United Ways of Tennessee (UWTN), the association of 38 United Ways in the state, launched Raise Your Hand Tennessee (RYHTN), a statewide collaboration to recruit volunteer readers, tutors, and mentors.  
 

“Government can do a lot to educate our children, but Government can’t do it all,” said First Lady Crissy Haslam.  “An initiative like RYHTN that can generate volunteers to tutor, mentor, and read to children is essential.”
 

“RYHTN has amazing partners, including United Ways, non-profits, corporations and state agencies,” noted Bryce Haugsdahl, UWTN Board Chair.  “This coalition is providing the infrastructure for recruiting volunteers and placing them where they are needed across the state. “

The corporate community is getting involved in this effort, too.  “Through RYHTN, we are given the opportunity to help young people be successful in school and in life, said Jim Rogers, Chairman and CEO of Eastman Chemical Company.  “I can think of no greater contribution we can make toward the future than investing in our children and our communities in this way.”

“Research shows that volunteer readers, tutors and mentors help children enter school ready to succeed, read proficiently by 4th grade, make a transition in and out of middle school, and graduate from high school on time,” said Mary Graham, UWTN President.   “We need Tennesseans to raise their hands and volunteer to help our state’s kids succeed in school and in life.”

For more information about RYHTN, visit http://www.raiseyourhandtn.org/.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 5, 2012

United Way of Sumner County Campaign Hits 75% Mark
Volunteers, Organization's Staff and Volunteers Begin Final Fundraising Push

Gallatin, TN– The start of the new year means only three months remain in United Way of Sumner County’s 2011 fundraising campaign, and the local charitable organization is working diligently to make every day count.

As of Jan. 5, the campaign has reached 75 percent of its fundraising goal, but United Way staff and volunteers must raise an additional $179,000 by March 31 to reach their goal of $715,000 to support local human service agencies during the next fiscal year. According to United Way of Sumner County President/CEO Dana M. Given, reaching the goal is important because of what it allows the organization to accomplish in the community.

“We fund 36 local partner agencies that provide needed services to our neighbors, coworkers, and friends right here in Sumner County,” Given said. “Those agencies are seeing an increase in demand for their services due to the sluggish economy and other factors. If our fundraising falls short, it impacts the amount of money we can allocate to them in the coming year. That, in turn, affects how the agencies will be able to serve local residents. Our partner agencies are counting on us, and we, in turn, are counting on the generosity of the community to help us improve the quality of life in Sumner County.”

In addition to finishing up workplace giving campaigns, Given said a new project, the Small Business Blitz, is scheduled to take place in February. While details of the Blitz are being finalized, Given said the goal of the program is to give small business owners in the community a chance to get involved in community improvement through United Way and its partner agencies. Details of the event will be released around the end of January, and Given hopes it will be a catalyst for pushing the 2011 Campaign total beyond its fundraising target.

United Way of Sumner County 2011 Campaign Chair Regina Bartlett, CEO of Hendersonville Medical Center, believes the community has the ability to surpass this year’s fundraising goal, especially if more people understand how the organization works.
“As donors and volunteers, we all have choices,” Bartlett said. “If you are able to make a difference in the lives of others, United Way of Sumner County is a great choice. We are a local entity run by local people, from our Board of Directors to our allocations committees. These community leaders not only care about Sumner County and its future, they also know our community and its needs. The money we raise here stays here to help local residents, and we work hard to keep the public informed about what we’re doing through our website and other communications tools. When you give to United Way of Sumner County, it is easy to know that your money is going where it is needed.”

Given says there are numerous reasons why it makes sense to give to United Way of Sumner County. Among the reasons she cited are:

Oversight – Most donors do not have the time to be personally involved with a non-profit agency in order to monitor the use of their charitable gift. United Way of Sumner County provides that oversight as a service to donors. United Way convenes community leaders to research needs, select the most effective approach to dealing with particular problems, and identify programs best qualified to do the work.

Scope – Giving to a single agency only touches one piece of the community’s problems. You help a child, but don’t help the parent. Or, you find someone a job, but don’t help them with affordable, quality day care. United Way of Sumner County funds a continuum of services, so the needs of the whole family can be met.

Reach – By giving through United Way of Sumner County, donors can make a difference on problems they personally care about, as well as those that fall outside the course of their daily lives.  United Way’s broader reach touches people whose lives many can only begin to imagine.

Leverage – Gifts to United Way will have more impact when pooled with those of other donors, so that agencies have funds to operate high quality programs. United Way is most powerful when we bring communities together around a set of issues that can only be addressed collectively.   

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 5, 2011

 United Way of Sumner County Campaign Hits 60% Mark
Volunteers, Staff Continue Efforts to Engage New Businesses, Donors

Gallatin, TN— United Way of Sumner County's 2011 campaign has reached 60 percent of its fundraising goal, but the charitable organization's staff and volunteers must raise an additional $280,000 by March 31 to reach their goal of $715,000 to support local health and human service agencies during the next fiscal year. So far, the campaign has raised $431,789, and a major push is on to raise the remaining funds necessary to meet this year's goal.

Funds raised by United Way of Sumner County each year come primarily from workplace campaigns, where employees at local businesses contribute to the local charity during a set donation period. Traditionally, most employees donate through payroll deductions that run throughout the year. Additional funds are raised through corporate donations, individual contributions, and special events. A major focus during this year's campaign has been to increase participation from individuals and companies. While there have been numerous new donors, more are needed according to United Way of Sumner County President/CEO Dana M. Given.

"The state of the economy has a real impact on our ability to raise funds for our 36 partner agencies," Given said. "On the other hand, the same circumstances create a greater need for the services provided by those agencies. It is crucial that those who can give - at any level - do so to ensure resources are available to our partner agencies when they need them."

While many people might recognize the name "United Way," Given believes much of the community does not know what the charitable organization really does beyond asking for donations on an annual basis. Getting the word out about United Way's mission, and its impact, is critical.

"Our mission is to mobilize local resources and provide them to local human service agencies that create a lasting and positive impact in the areas of Education, Income, Health, and Rebuilding Lives," Given said. "What that means is that we raise money and provide it to local agencies so they can concentrate the majority of their efforts on helping people instead of fundraising.

"Each year, committees of local volunteers go through a rigorous process of allocating the money we raise. Every agency that requests funding from United Way of Sumner County is thoroughly vetted in terms of operations, effectiveness, and accountability. Additionally, we conduct needs assessments to determine where our resources can make the most positive difference in our community. At the end of the day, our goal is to improve the quality of life for everyone who lives in Sumner County."

Since most established workplace donation campaigns are already underway or completed, 2011 United Way of Sumner County Campaign Chair Regina Bartlett, CEO of Hendersonville Medical Center, says efforts are now being directed toward non-participating businesses. While it sounds like an easy sell, she says convincing business owners and managers to give their employees the chance to make a difference for their neighbors through a United Way campaign is often difficult.

"Unfortunately, there are many preconceived notions and misinformation in people's minds about what United Way is and what we do," Bartlett said. "Getting a new workplace campaign started involves answering a lot of questions, and more importantly, putting a face on the difference that a contribution to United Way of Sumner County can make right here at home.

"Those faces can be of victims of domestic violence, people who can't afford health care because of layoffs, or a family trying to keep the heat running in winter because of circumstances totally beyond their control. The list can go on and on, but the point is that many of us have friends, family, neighbors, and coworkers who are facing serious issues that, with a little help, can be minimized or eliminated to create the possibility of having a better life. With each life that is improved, the overall quality of our entire community is elevated. That's why more than 4,000 people already give to United Way of Sumner County, but it is also why that number is not nearly large enough for a county our size."

Even though United Way of Sumner County is constantly reaching out to additional businesses about holding workplace campaigns, Given encourages those who have not yet been contacted to give her a call.

"We are always willing to talk to business leaders and their employees about how they can make a difference in Sumner County," Given said. "I often run across people who tell me they took part in campaigns with previous employers, but they sometimes don't even know there is a United Way in Sumner County. We have been here since 1977, and as long as there are problems to be addressed in our community, we will be here to generate and provide resources to those agencies working to solve them."

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 21, 2011

United Way of Sumner County Supporters Turn to Innovative Fundraising Sites to Help Our Community This Holiday Season 
Donation made to United Way of Sumner County through GoodSeach.com for each web search and online purchase

Gallatin, TN - United Way of Sumner County's supporters now have an innovative option for increasing their charitable giving- turning their every day actions into ways of positively impacting Sumner County residents' education, financial stability, health and overall quality of life. GoodSearch.com and subsidiary GoodShop.com are adding the incentive of altruism to the convenience of using the Internet and shopping online.
 

GoodShop.com works with more than 3,000 top online retailers including Amazon, Target, Toys "R" Us, Best Buy, Apple, Sephora, Macy's, PetSmart, and Expedia among others.  The shopping experience and prices are the same as going to the retailer directly, but each time you shop at one of these stores via GoodShop, a percentage of what you spend goes back to your favorite charity or school.  And, equally as exciting, GoodShop.com offers over 100,000 money saving coupons and free shipping offers.  So, not only are you helping your cause, but you are also saving money while doing so.
 
Similarly, with every search conducted on Yahoo!-powered GoodSearch.com, approximately one penny is donated to your favorite charity.  It's used exactly like any other search engine and the pennies add up quickly. 
 

Search engine advertisers and online shopping generate billions of dollars each year.  Now, some of that money is going towards helping United Way of Sumner County fund it's 36 Partner Agencies serving thousands of Sumner County residents.
 

More than 100,000 nonprofits have partnered with GoodShop and GoodSearch and millions of people are using these sites to help their causes. GoodSearch and GoodShop have raised nearly $8 million -- helping make a real difference for the organizations they work with!
 

If you are interested in learning how to get started making your time and dollars spent on the Internet contribute to United Way of Sumner County's efforts within our community, please visit http://www.unitedwaysumner.org/ or call the United Way office at (615) 461-8371.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 27, 2011

Holidays provide opportunities for CARING about others

As the holiday season approaches, many of us are already obsessing about our holiday shopping lists. At the same time, many of us are thinking about how we can help those in our neighborhoods, churches, and workplaces who are facing difficult times.

Everyone is familiar with the terms "Random of Acts of Kindness" and "Paying it Forward." In

United Way terminology, we encourage folks to LIVE UNITED.

LIVE UNITED is more than just our slogan: it’s our mindset. We believe in people working together to raise each individual above adversity in order to improve our community, and we believe in showing others we CARE, whether it is with a one-time act or continuing activity, no matter how long it takes.

While we always encourage our friends and neighbors across Sumner County to volunteer with

United Way and our 36 partner agencies, we know there are many more opportunities to serve. The holiday season and the start of a new year are great times to reflect on the blessings we have in our lives and to reach out to others to make sure everyone knows that someone CARES about them.  

Below are some ideas that you and your family can do to make a positive difference in someone's life. Just think, if each person in Sumner County completed at least one CARING activity, what a difference it could make for everyone!  It's really that simple...

• Clean out your closets and donate gently used clothing, toys, and other household items you no longer use to one of our United Way partner agencies. There are five "help centers" who will gladly accept your items for resale in their stores or to aid someone in need.

• Gather extra unexpired items in the pantry or buy a few extra non-perishable food or paper goods (paper towels, toilet paper) when you visit the grocery store and deliver them to one of our five partner food banks.
  

   

• Send a handwritten thank you note to someone who has made a difference for you or someone in your family.
  
  
• Invite an elderly neighbor or someone you know who lives alone in your neighborhood over for Thanksgiving dinner.
  
  
• Assemble toiletry kits of sample-sized products (shampoo/conditioner, toothpaste, toothbrush, soap, lotion, deodorant) for our local domestic violence or homeless shelters. 
   
• Offer to clean out the gutters at an elderly neighbor's house.

• Send letters and/or care packages to our troops serving abroad. A good place to start is http://www.anysoldier.com/.
• Have your children color or draw a picture and take it to someone who could use a bright spot in their day. 
• If your children have toys or books that no longer interest them, take the items to one of our partner help centers or agencies that provide child care - Community Child Care Services, Inc. (Hendersonville) and Gallatin Day Care Center.

All it takes is a little time and effort to make a huge difference in someone’s life. I hope each of you finds joy and happiness during this holiday season, and I encourage you to share that warmth with everyone you can; that’s how we all LIVE UNITED!

For more information on United Wayof Sumner County, our partner agencies, more volunteer ideas, and opportunities to volunteer and invest in your community, visit http://www.unitedwaysumner.org/.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 21, 2011

It’s Not About Meeting a Goal; It’s About Meeting a Need
Campaign Commentary by President/CEO of
United Way of Sumner County, Dana M. Given

When people ask me how things are going at the United Wayof Sumner County, they are most interested in how we are coming at meeting our campaign goal. How red is the United Way thermometer?

And, because I know you want to know, I’ll tell you we are already at 42% of our goal.

A lot of workplace campaigns are currently running or have just completed and our board of directors plans to continue talking to other businesses about running new workplace campaigns.

But it’s not about meeting that goal; it’s about how those funds will enable us to meet community needs.  We invite you to join us in meeting that need.  For more information on what we do or to make a donation, visit the United Wayof Sumner County website at http://www.unitedwaysumner.org/.

United Way Hires New Director of Resource Development Steve Doremus

Gallatin, TN, September 28, 2011- United Way of Sumner County has hired Sumner County resident Steve Doremus as its new Director of Resource Development.

According to United Way of Sumner County President/CEO Dana Given, Doremus brings with him a wealth of connections that will benefit the organization. "I am extremely pleased that Steve has joined our United Way family," Given said. "Many people already know Steve from his previous work in the county, so he has hit the ground running in his efforts to connect with the community in his new role. I am looking forward to having someone with his skills and knowledge on our staff as we strive to make a positive difference in our community."

A native of Nashville, Doremus is a graduate of Tenn. Tech University in Cookeville, where he earned a B.S. degree in Journalism. He served as news editor for The News Examiner in Gallatin from 1991-95, and he was the Supervisor of Board and Community Relations for Sumner County Schools from 1996-2007. Steve's most recent work was as the Director of Communications for the Tenn. School Boards Association. He and his wife of nine years, Marva, live in Hendersonville.

As Director of Resource Development, Doremus will plan, organize, and coordinate United Way of Sumner County's annual campaigns and work with campaign volunteers throughout the county. The 2011 campaign, Campaign for the Common Good, is already underway.

"It is great to be working in my home community again, where neighbors look after each other and the spirit of giving makes so many great things possible," Doremus said. "I am very much looking forward to assisting United Way of Sumner County in its efforts to support the great agencies here that help so many people every day."

About United Way Sumner County:
LIVE UNITED (TM) is not just a catchy tagline; it is a comprehensive approach to meeting the community's needs. It means being proactive to prevent or lessen challenges in the community, as well as mobilizing the resources necessary to help those in need right now. Since 1977, United Way of Sumner County has addressed the daily challenges of life as a local organization run by volunteers from throughout Sumner County. Its mission is to improve lives by mobilizing the caring power of our community. For more information about the United Way of Sumner County, giving and volunteer opportunities, and partner agencies, visit www.unitedwaysumner.org

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 19, 2011

United Way Launches Annual Campaign

The United Way of Sumner County will launch its 2011 fundraising campaign at 5:00 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 22 at The Streets of Indian Lake in Hendersonville. The event is being held in conjunction with the Hendersonville Area Chamber of Commerce's annual Taste of Hendersonville.

The local United Way raises money to help support nonprofit organizations that benefit Sumner County residents. Funds raised from the 2010 campaign are supporting community programs offered by 36 agencies.

Programs receiving funds from the United Way provide support in the areas of education, income/financial stability, health and rebuilding lives.

"All agencies receiving funds from the local United Way have shown that they are having a positive long-term impact on the lives of Sumner County residents," said Dana M. Given, president and CEO of the Sumner County United Way. "They fulfill the United Way mission for our communities to LIVE UNITED."

"We know that people today are facing hard times and it is a challenge to give. But, due to the economy, the need is even greater and our agencies are stretched to serve all those walking through their doors," Given said.

Echoing those sentiments is Regina Bartlett, CEO, Hendersonville Medical center, who is this year's campaign chair. "This year's campaign is so important. There are more people in need than ever before and unless agencies receive adequate funding, these vital services may not be available," Bartlett said. "We are urging everyone, those you have been faithful supporters as well as those who have never given, to consider as generous a donation as you can this year Collectively those dollars will make a huge impact to our friends and neighbors in need."

The United Way of Sumner County's fundraising campaign will run through November 15. Those who live in Sumner County, but work in other counties, may designate their donations to come back to help local residents by marking their pledge cards "United Way of Sumner County". Individual donations are also encouraged.

The kickoff on Thursday, September 22, will include sponsor giveaways and balloons for children.

 About United Way Sumner County:
LIVE UNITED (TM) is not just a catchy tagline; it is a comprehensive approach to meeting the community's needs. It means being proactive to prevent or lessen challenges in the community, as well as mobilizing the resources necessary to help those in need right now. Since 1977, United Way of Sumner County has addressed the daily challenges of life as a local organization run by volunteers from throughout Sumner County. Its mission is to improve lives by mobilizing the caring power of our community. For more information about the United Way of Sumner County, giving and volunteer opportunities, and partner agencies, visit www.unitedwaysumner.org

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 1, 2011

 United Way of Sumner County Announces the 2011 Campaign Cabinet

GALLATIN, Tennessee, August 23, 2011 - United Way of Sumner County announced the Campaign Cabinet members for the "2011 Campaign for the Common Good".  Under the leadership of Campaign Chair, Regina Bartlett, CEO of Hendersonville Medical Center, the cabinet will work to build a strong United Way presence in the community.  

"Our goal for this year is to raise awareness of community needs and increase companies participation in the campaign," said Bartlett, 2011 Campaign Chair. "Collaborating with our 36 community partner agencies to create a healthier, stronger community for all is very important and we can create more change if we are able to raise more money during the annual campaign."

Funds raised annually provide support for United Way of Sumner County community programs and go to support our 36 local community partner agencies.

The cabinet leaders will work together to create and implement specific strategies that will bolster workplace and corporate giving strategies. The cabinet volunteers are top executives and community leaders who will serve as Division Chairs to set benchmarks, implement strategies and monitor outcomes within their respective areas of expertise.

Campaign cabinet members include: 

Don Ames:      Government Division

Betsy Bean:    Financial Division

Laura Cole:     Financial Division

Jud Broome:   Manufacturing Division

Tim Altizer      Manufacturing Division

Fran Marcou:  Real Estate/Retail Division

 About United Way Sumner County:
LIVE UNITED (TM) is not just a catchy tagline; it is a comprehensive approach to meeting the community's needs. It means being proactive to prevent or lessen challenges in the community, as well as mobilizing the resources necessary to help those in need right now. Since 1977, United Way of Sumner County has addressed the daily challenges of life as a local organization run by volunteers from throughout Sumner County. Its mission is to improve lives by mobilizing the caring power of our community. For more information about the United Way of Sumner County, giving and volunteer opportunities, and partner agencies, visit www.unitedwaysumner.org

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 8, 2011

United Way has prescription for immediate savings !
United Way of Sumner County and FamilyWize announce savings of  $41,747.00 in everyday prescription costs for local residents

The United Way and FamilyWize are proud to announce that their partnership has saved the people living and working in Sumner County more than $41,747.00 on everyday prescription costs.

The free FamilyWize drug discount card is distributed by United Way of Sumner County. "No one should be forced to choose between paying for food, rent or medicine because of the high cost of prescriptions. That's why we've partnered with FamilyWize to distribute free prescription discount cards to everyone in Sumner County", said Dana M.Given of the United Way of Sumner County."  

Distributed through United Ways, the FamilyWize card lowers the cost of medicine by an average of 30% or more for people without insurance or who take medications not covered by their plan. It's easy.  It's just like a coupon you can keep using every time you need to fill a prescription.  All you have to do is present a a FamilyWize card at a local pharmacy to get the savings.

"The FamilyWize card provides immediate savings on prescription medicines with no paperwork or forms to fill out," said Dan Barnes, Co-chair of The FamilyWize Community Service Partnership.

These cards can be used by everyone in the community, not just people without insurance. They can even be used by people with health benefits, including Medicaid or Medicare.

The FamilyWize card is easy to use:

• It's Free
• For immediate and unlimited use
• Anyone can use the FamilyWize card
• Accepted at 95% of pharmacies nationwide
• No enrollment or personal information needed

Nearly 1,000 United Ways in all 50 states have helped to save more than $100 million on prescriptions in their communities.

People can go to http://www.familywize.org/ to print a card, look up drug prices and obtain a list of participating pharmacies. 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 20, 2011

United Way allocates money to local PARTNER AGENCIES and programs

The United Way of Sumner County (UWSC) Board of Directors met recently and approved the recommendations of the Executive Allocations Committee to provide $463,789 in funding (including designations) to 32 agencies, representing 36 programs which directly serve Sumner County residents. Also allocated was annual funding of the 2-1-1 helpline service-a national United Way initiative that provides around-the-clock referral of local callers to appropriate human service agencies and disaster relief resources.

This year marked the fourth year of UWSC applying the Outcomes Based Investing (OBI) model of funding agencies.  OBI is a tool by which to measure the outcomes of each client served and how it impacts those served (i.e. its effectiveness).  Allocations volunteers were once again provided OBI training prior to their panels to ensure proper analysis of the applying agencies and their community impacts. 

Dana M. Given, President and CEO of UWSC, commenting on the pressing needs in the community, said "We were blessed with over 50 volunteers who helped in the Allocations process, from reviewing agency budgets, to doing agency site visits, and participating in the actual allocation hearing days. United Way could not function without their incredible time commitment.  It is not a quick and easy process; but we are working this year, through the OBI process, to provide funding for agencies that can show measurable outcomes.  Our volunteers will then follow up with the agencies 6 months down the line - assuring our donors that their dollars are having measurable long-term impact here in our county."

"Our volunteers discovered during the Allocations process that there was simply not enough money to fully fund every agency - no matter how clear their outcomes were; so our staff and campaign volunteers are currently working to more fully develop our current campaign model, as well as identify alternative revenue streams."

Following is a list of the 2011-2012 UWSC partner agencies and the funds they will receive during the fiscal year:

Achievement in the Making Program (Gallatin Shalom Zone), $5,000; American Red Cross, $8,000; Ashley's Place (Sumner Child Advocacy Center), $10,000; Books from Birth, $2,100; Community Child Care, $25,000; Cumberland Crisis Pregnancy Center, $20,000; Financial Literacy Program (Dominion Financial Management), $10,000; Gallatin Day Care, $29,000; Gallatin Senior Center, $8,000; Good Neighbor Mission, $32,000; Hendersonville Samaritan Association, $18,000; HomeSafe, $14,500, HOPE Food Bank, $10,289; Interfaith Dental Clinic, $3,500; Kids on the Block, $3,500; Legal Aid Society, $4,000; Literacy Council of Sumner County, $14,400; MCHRA - Homemaker Program, $8,800; MCHRA - Long Term Care Ombudsman, $3,000; MCHRA - Meals on Wheels, $12,500; Nurses for Newborns, $3,600; Parents Reaching Out, $2,500; Portland CARES, $38,500; Portland Senior Citizens, $8,000; Pure Life Abstinence Program (Cumberland Crisis Pregnancy), $11,000; Rainbow Early Intervention Program (HATS), $17,000; Salvus Center, $11,600; Senior Citizens of Hendersonville, $11,000; Student Assistance Program (STARS Nashville), $49,500; Sumner County 4-H, $5,000; Sumner County Adult Education Advisory Council, $5,000; Sumner County CASA, $17,000; St. Vincent de Paul Society, $16,000, Tennessee Poison Center, $2,000; Westmoreland Food Bank (Amazing Grace Mission), $12,000 and YouthSafe (HomeSafe), $4,500.

 About United Way Sumner County:
LIVE UNITED (TM) is not just a catchy tagline; it is a comprehensive approach to meeting the community's needs. It means being proactive to prevent or lessen challenges in the community, as well as mobilizing the resources necessary to help those in need right now. Since 1977, United Way of Sumner County has addressed the daily challenges of life as a local organization run by volunteers from throughout Sumner County. Its mission is to improve lives by mobilizing the caring power of our community. For more information about the United Way of Sumner County, giving and volunteer opportunities, and partner agencies, visit www.unitedwaysumner.org

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May, 2011

United Way Raises $694,442.78 in 2010 Campaign

The United Way of Sumner County recently announced that they saw an 11% increase in their fundraising efforts this year.

Their 2010 Campaign officially ended on March 31, 2011, with an almost $70,000 increase, over last year's $625,000 total.

"Many factors went into this sizable increase" stated Dave Jose, 2010 Campaign Chair of the local United Way. "While several Sumner County companies held new United Way Campaigns this year, we saw several substantial increases from companies who have been holding campaigns for the past several years." Jose added that this translates into their organization raising 97% of their $715,000 goal.

Dana M. Given, President/CEO, stated that since there fundraising staff is small, that they rely heavily on their volunteer workplace campaign coordinators - in 55 local companies and in most all of the Sumner County schools. We are so appreciative of the work of our volunteers." 

About United Way Sumner County:
LIVE UNITED (TM) is not just a catchy tagline; it is a comprehensive approach to meeting the community's needs. It means being proactive to prevent or lessen challenges in the community, as well as mobilizing the resources necessary to help those in need right now. Since 1977, United Way of Sumner County has addressed the daily challenges of life as a local organization run by volunteers from throughout Sumner County. Its mission is to improve lives by mobilizing the caring power of our community. For more information about the United Way of Sumner County, giving and volunteer opportunities, and partner agencies, visit www.unitedwaysumner.org