With a theme of “The Power of One,” United Way of White County has kicked off its 2020 campaign today [Friday, Oct. 25], unveiling a thermometer sign showing a fundraising goal of $85,000 to help enrich thousands of lives in White County.

The local United Way already has gained backing of White County government and schools, as well as numerous businesses, in its payroll deduction effort and is continuing its outreach throughout the community.

In recent years, United Way of White County has depended upon annual events such as the spring Darrel Chaney Invitation Charity Golf Tournament and the Christmas season Festival of Trees for most of its budget, which furnishes direct funding to more than a dozen not-for-profit organizations serving the people of White County.

In its 2020 campaign, United Way of White County is engaging local employers, seeking funds via employee payroll deductions, as well as corporate contributions.

Agencies receiving United Way of White County funding in 2019 include: Community Helping Hands Clinic, White County Caring & Sharing, Boy Scouts of America Northeast Georgia Council, Caring Hands Ministries, Circle of Hope, Family Promise of White County, White County Special Olympics, Habitat for Humanity of White County, Rape Response Inc., Charles Smithgall Humane Society, White County 4-H, White County Food Pantry, South Enotah Child Advocacy Center, Enotah CASA Inc. and Sisu of Georgia Inc. Integrated Early Learning.

Through these not-for-profits, United Way of White County meaningfully touches more than 20,000 lives a year.

Special appreciation to the White County School District, Superintendant Dr. Laurie Burkett and, in particular, White County High School metals and welding instructor Mark Adams, for quite literal support efforts. Adams voluntarily fabricated the frame for the thermometer goal sign, which is to be alternately displayed between the south side of Cleveland’s Courthouse Square and the northwest corner of Main Street and Helen Highway.

United Way of White County greatly appreciates all support, through monetary gifts; investments of time, services and materials; and prayers. Embodying the spirit of “The Power of One,” United Way of White County recognizes that giving takes a little but means a lot, helping to deliver meaningful results in improving lives right here in White County.