Effingham, IL -(Effingham Radio)- United Way of Effingham County had a successful 2019 campaign, and raised $336,829. This was announced at the Annual Meeting that was held on February 4, 2020 at the Effingham Events Center in Effingham. The campaign officially closed on 1/31/20.
The winners of the 2019 Spirit of Caring Awards were announced, and the businesses were also honored who achieved Gold, Silver and Bronze status. Midland States Bank was also recognized as the “Lead Pacesetter” company, partner agencies and review of the 2019 Campaign were also highlighted. Many were on hand to celebrate the success of the 2019 Campaign!
The Spirit of Caring Awards recognize individuals who are committed citizens and organizations that stand out, those who make an impact on the campaign, while others give countless hours to improve the quality of life in Effingham County.
Gabby Goat was named 2019 Outstanding Volunteer. Gabby Goat began their partnership with United Way two years ago when they held their first restaurant promotion where for two full days 10% of all food sales and carry out orders went to United Way. To date they have raised $3,800. This partnership is a great opportunity for individuals to enjoy some great food and give back to the community.
Dieterich Bank was named 2019 Outstanding Organization. They have always been a supporter of United Way. They held their first campaign in 2005 and raised $1,200. Their campaign has grown over the years, raising $11,500 with their most recent 2019 campaign. Dieterich Bank supports United Way throughout the year by attending fundraiser events, sponsor a VIP table and donates auction items for the events. They also have a representative on the United Way Board of Directors and hold various fundraisers throughout the year for United Way.
Marty Watson was named 2019 Outstanding Board Member. Marty Watson joined the United Way Board of Directors in 2016 representing Ameren. He has served in various roles on the board. Most recently, Marty served as Board President in 2019 and 2018. He has served on the Grants Committee, Campaign Committee and Special Events Committee and served as the Master of Ceremonies for the Witches Ball. The Board of Directors also awarded Marty Outstanding Board Member in 2017 and continue to recognize his efforts to always go above and beyond.
Other businesses included seating six new and renewing directors for the 2020 Board of Directors. New members include: Rachel Crackel – Patterson Technology Center, Brenda Niebrugge – J & J Ventures, Kenny Stice – Siemer Milling Company, Bailey Swensen – First Mid Bank & Trust, Debbie Womack – First National Bank of Waterloo. Those serving another term include; Sara Jennings – Community Member and James Schultz – Community Member.
Special thanks was given to outgoing board member; Tony Crackel – Truck Centers, Inc., Patrick Kreke – Patterson Technology Center, and Rachel Miller – Siemer Milling Company.
Pacesetter Companies were also recognized. These are companies who have conducted an employee campaign, made a corporate donation, and purchased a table at the United Way Witches Ball. Over 85% of the annual campaign is generated from employee campaigns. They include: Agracel, Ameren, Crossroads Bank, Dieterich Bank, HSHS St Anthony’s Memorial Hospital, Koerner Distributor, Midland States Bank, Patterson Technology Center, Siemer Milling Company, Stevens Industries and Washington Savings Bank.
Gold, Silver and Bronze level plaques were presented to the businesses based on their campaign totals. Gold level businesses, raising $10,000 or above include: Agracel, Ameren, Dieterich Bank, Fifth Third Bank, Koerner Distributor, Midland States Bank, Patterson Technology Center, Siemer Milling Company and Stevens Industries.
Silver level businesses, raising $5,000 – $9,999 include; HSHS St Anthony’s Memorial Hospital and Niemerg’s Steakhouse.
Bronze level businesses, raising $2,500 – $4,999 include; Carle Foundation Hospital, Washington Savings Bank and West & Company.
Other local businesses that conducted an employee campaign were also honored: Crossroads Bank, Effingham County employees, First Financial Bank of Newton, First Mid Bank & Trust, First National Bank of Waterloo, John Boos & Company, LSC Communications, Luminant – Newton Power Station, Sarah Bush Lincoln Health Center, Senior Services of Effingham County and United Fidelity Bank of St. Elmo.
Twenty two local partner agencies will receive funding from the 2019 United Way of Effingham County campaign: Altamont After School Program, Andrew Gobczynski Big Heart Foundation, Big Brothers Big Sisters Mid-Illinois, Boy Scouts of America – Lincoln Trails Council, Catholic Charities, CEFS Literacy Program, CEFS Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP), Children’s Advocacy Center of East Central Illinois, Effingham Child Development Center, Effingham County FISH Human Services, Effingham County Search & Rescue, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Girl Scouts of Southern Illinois, Heartland Human Services, Meal on Wheels of CEFS, One Hope United, Oneighty, Senior Services of Effingham County, Sexual Assault and Family Emergencies (SAFE), Strategic Training & Restoration (STAR), Stopping Woman Abuse Now (SWAN), and the Unit 40 Mentoring Program.
Special thanks to everyone who contributed to the 2019 campaign, and helped exceed the 2019 campaign goal of $320,000. The campaign officially closed on January 31, 2020 and finished at $336,829.
Many of the United Way Agencies would not be able to provide services to Effingham County residents without the contributions made by local individuals and businesses. For more information about United Way of Effingham County, please call (217) 342-3824 or visit www.effinghamunitedway.org