Local United Way Announces Campaign Total

The United Way of Central Missouri marked the end of its formal fundraising period at a Victory Celebration held at the Missouri Farm Bureau on Wednesday morning. Prior to announcing the campaign results, organizers stressed that the total amount raised contains projections as donations continue to arrive at the United Way office over the coming weeks and months.
The projected pledge total of the 2010 Community campaign is $1,626,254. United Way leadership reported this total will make it possible to meet its financial commitment to the member agencies and the community. “Our first responsibility is to our 25 partner agencies, many of which could not exist without United Way funding”, said United Way President, Ann Bax. “This year’s projected total will allow us to keep that commitment and help make a positive difference in the lives of people in need in our community.”
“Challenging times call for big hearts. It's no surprise that Mid-Missourians have answered the call to help their friends and neighbors” said Debbie Snyder, 2010 Campaign Co-Chair. “That generous spirit makes "Live United" more than just a slogan. In our community, it's a way of life.”
“Once again, this confirms what a generous community we live in,” added Bernie Fechtel, Campaign Co-Chair. “It also shows the community believes in and trusts the United Way when it comes to determining and meeting the needs in Central Missouri.” He added, “We are so fortunate to be able to count on our contributors year after year”.
Money raised during the Community Campaign funds the work of the 25 member agencies and programs. United Way of Central Missouri serves Cole, Miller, Moniteau, Osage, and southern Callaway Counties. For more information about the United Way of Central Missouri and its agencies, call 573-636-4100 or visit our website at www.unitedwaycemo.org.


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United Way to Announce Campaign Totals

The United Way of Central Missouri will announce the projected total for the 2010 Community Campaign during the Victory Celebration next week. The Victory Celebration is scheduled Wednesday, November 10th at 8:00am at Missouri Farm Bureau, 701 S. Country Club Drive. The event is free and open to the public. A light breakfast will be provided.
“The campaign results announced at the Victory Celebration is a projection, as actual results for the 2010 Community Campaign will not be finalized until early next year. This event is also our opportunity to recognize the efforts of our wonderful volunteers, and thank the community for their support and for continuing the effort to Live United” says Ann Bax, President of the United Way. Money raised will fund the work of the 25 United Way of Central Missouri agencies and programs. The United Way of Central Missouri serves Cole, Miller, Moniteau, Osage, and southern Callaway Counties.
For more information about the United Way Community Campaign please call 573-636-4100 or visit our website at www.unitedwaycemo.org.


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Jefferson Bank holding fun events to support United Way of Central Missouri

Jefferson Bank is one of 28 United Way Pacesetter companies that is holding special events during the month of August. Mr. Dick Wilson, President, Jefferson Bank, has a date with a pig! Win a chance to escort Mr. Wilson to his date with Smiley, the pig. Smiley is owned by Dale Binkley’s daughter, Bryana. Smiley is a show pig and on a celebrity tour of many of the county and state fairs but she will be at the main campus gazebo on Wednesday, August 18th at 9:00 a.m. for her date with the President. Mr. Wilson will greet Smiley with a kiss and we’re hoping she will be willing to kiss him in return. Raffle Tickets are one for $1 or six for $5 for a chance to escort Mr. Wilson to his date!

In addition, Jefferson Bank will have a dunking booth set up on August 12th from 10:00-1:30 at the main bank on Southwest Blvd. United Way's very own campaign co-chair Bernie Fechtel will be in the booth at 12:00pm!

Another special fund raiser Jefferson Bank is holding is a Holland Flower Bulb Sale. Contact Pam Stoner at 573-644-7675 x 2675 if you are interested in ordering.

For more information please Cindy Forck at Jefferson Bank at 573 634-0806 or call the United Way office at 573-636-4100.

United Way of Central Missouri Announces Pacesetters and Campaign Goal

The United Way of Central Missouri will work to raise $1,620,000 during its 2010 annual campaign. Campaign Co-Chairs Bernie Fechtel and Debbie Snyder acknowledged the long history of the United Way in the Jefferson City community. “We believe, together with donors and organizations, that the United Way can improve lives and build a stronger community”, said Snyder. “The $20,000 increase in the campaign target is a result of the ever growing needs in the community. Our agencies have to do more with less due to budget cuts.”
“The focus of the United Way is to make a positive difference in our community,” added Fechtel. “We are honored to serve as Co-Chairs this year because other than the United Way, where can one donation impact the needs of so many in our community”. The theme of this year’s campaign is “I don’t just wear the shirt I Live it,” to continue the Live United mantra from last year. This slogan epitomizes the fact that United Way volunteers don’t just talk about making our community a better place to live, we put those words into action by giving, volunteering, advocating…Living United.
The 30 member Campaign Leadership Team kicked off last week with a Campaign Leadership team rally. Along with the co-chairs team members include: Dave Turner, Hawthorn Bank, Amy Berendzen, Capital Region Medical Center, Brandy Bryant, Jefferson Bank, Sharon Campbell, Regions Bank, Christine Ellinger, Central Bank, Andy Fechtel, Fechtel Beverage & Sales, Ryan Freeman, Freeman Mortuary, Lori Hoelscher, AmerenUE, John Kehoe, Osage Industries, Jim Perch, Missouri Farm Bureau, Kathy Scheulen, Jefferson City Chamber of Commerce, Cyndy Schnieders, Central Bank, Gaye Suggett, AmerenUE, Kyle Trimble, Dulle-Trimble Funeral Home, Janet Wear-Enloe, Jefferson City Medical Group, Dan Westhues, Central Bank, Ron Fitzwater, Missouri Pharmacy Association, Terra Parris, Jefferson City Public Schools, Didier Aur, Helias Catholic High School, Mike Downey, KJLU, Lincoln University, Duane Schreimann, Schreimann, Rackers, Francka & Blunt, LLC, Bill Reichard, Ann Whaley, Al Able, Jay Kersting, Susie LeRoy, Sharon Naught, and Leslie Verslues. They will help to solicit donations and pledges from businesses and individuals throughout the service area.
Twenty-eight area businesses and the United Way partner agencies will jumpstart the fundraising during the Pacesetter Campaign, which will be held throughout the month of August. Those organizations are:

ALPLA, Inc.
Brown Printing
Capital Region Medical Center
Central Bank & Central Technology Services
Coca Cola Bottling Company
County of Cole
Dillard’s – Capital Mall
Fechtel Beverage & Sales
Hawthorn Bank
Jefferson Bank and Central Mortgage Company
Jefferson City Medical Group
Learfield Communications, Inc.
Lutheran Senior Services
Mid-America Wireless
Mike Kehoe Automotive Group
Missouri Automobile Dealers Association
Missouri Hospital Association
Modern Litho-Print
Modine Manufacturing
Premier Bank
Schnucks
Septagon Construction
St. Mary’s Health Center
Target, Jefferson City
UMB Bank
United Parcel Services
United Way Agencies
Wallstreet Financial Group
Wal-Mart Supercenter in Jefferson City

The United Way of Central Missouri’s community campaign is held annually to help fund the work of its 25 member agencies and programs. The United Way of Central Missouri serves Cole, Miller, Moniteau, Osage, and southern Callaway Counties.
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United Way of Central Missouri to announce Pacesetters and Campaign Goal

The United Way of Central Missouri will announce its Pacesetter companies, campaign goal, and theme for the 2010 Community Campaign at a news conference scheduled for Thursday, July 22 at 9:15 AM. The news conference will be held at the NH Scheppers Community room located at 2300 St. Mary’s Blvd.

The 2010 Community Campaign officially kicks-off on September 2nd at 11:30 AM at the Capital Plaza Hotel. Twenty-eight area businesses and the twenty-four United Way partner agencies will jumpstart the fundraising during the Pacesetter Campaign, which will be held during the month of August.

The United Way of Central Missouri’s community campaign is held annually to help fund the work of its 25 member agencies and programs. The United Way of Central Missouri serves Cole, Miller, Moniteau, Osage, and southern Callaway Counties. Over 102,000 individuals were served by these agencies last year. For more information, please call the United Way Office at (573) 636-4100 or visit www.unitedwaycemo.org.


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United Way of Central Missouri announces Community Campaign Co-Chairs for 2010 and One-Time Grant

The United Way of Central Missouri announced this year’s campaign leadership at a news conference this morning. Two longtime Jefferson City area residents and community leaders will serve as this year’s Campaign co-chairs. Bernie Fechtel has volunteered with a number of youth agencies in our community. He has offered his business expertise to four of our partner agencies including the YMCA, Boy Scouts, Boys & Girls Club, and Council for Drug Free Youth. Bernie has been an active Board member, and a strong supporter to each of our partner agencies. He generously donates his time and talent throughout the community, including his church. Bernie has served on the United Way board for 7 years, having held the position of Vice-chair, Chairman, and Past-Chairman. He has also served on the Nominating Committee, Long Range Planning Committee, and Strategic Funding committees. In addition, he served as Co-chair during the 2004 Campaign.
Debbie Snyder has served as a volunteer for a number of community agencies including Rape & Abuse Crisis Service, Girl Scouts, and the St. Mary’s Health Center Foundation. She has shared her accounting expertise with many organizations and committees, has led fund drives, and is active in her church, school, and community. Debbie has been a long time United Way volunteer, and has served on the United Way Board of Directors for 7 years, where she held the position of Treasurer. In addition, she has served on various United Way committees including Strategic Planning, Finance/Audit, and Fund Allocation.
“It is a privilege and an honor to have these two individuals lead our community campaign this year’, said Ann Bax, President/CPO of United Way of Central Missouri. ‘They will be a tremendous asset to the United Way and our volunteers.”
The United Way of Central Missouri also presented a $19,000 check to the Jefferson City Day Care, one of its partner agencies. This one-time grant was awarded by the United Way to replace the surface of the lower level playground. “The Day Care is dedicated to providing a safe, loving environment for our children. This grant will certainly increase the safety of our children during the time they spend outside,” said Donna Scheidt, Jefferson City Day Care Executive Director.
The United Way of Central Missouri’s community campaign is held annually to help fund the work of its 25 partner agencies and programs. The United Way of Central Missouri serves Cole, Miller, Moniteau, Osage, and southern Callaway counties. Over 100,000 individuals were served by these agencies last year. For more information, please call the United Way Office at (573) 636-4100 or visit www.unitedwaycemo.org.

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United Way of Central Missouri to announce Campaign Leaders for 2010 Campaign and One-Time Grant

The United Way of Central Missouri will announce the 2010 Community Campaign Co-chairs at a news conference scheduled at 9:00am on Wednesday, May 19 at Jefferson City Day Care Center, 1002 Myrtle. In addition, a one-time grant will be presented to one of the United Way partner agencies. The co-chairs, agency and United Way staff will be available for questions immediately following. For more information please call the United Way office at 573-636-4100.


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United Way of Central Missouri Announces New Leadership

The Board of Directors of the United Way of Central Missouri announced the hiring of Ann Bax as President/CPO effective April 26, 2010.
“It is important that the United Way leadership has a tie to the Jefferson City community, “stated Dave Turner, 2010 Board Chairman. “Ann fits that role extremely well.”

A Helias High School graduate, Bax has twenty-five years of experience in various levels of management, marketing, and human resources. She and her husband, Bruce, co-own and operate Don Schnieders Excavating Company. Prior to her work with the family business, Ann spent twelve years as Director of Marketing and Advertising for Modern Business Systems. Most recently, she was employed with the Missouri Department of Transportation. “I am humbled and honored to accept this opportunity to serve the United Way of Central Missouri,” stated Bax, “and will do my very best to continue its great work!” Bax replaces current President Linda McAnany who announced her retirement after nine years with the organization.

The United Way of Central helps fund the work of 25 partner agencies and programs serving Cole, Miller, Moniteau, Osage, and southern Callaway Counties. Over 90,000 individuals were served by these agencies last year.


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United Way of Central Missouri Launches Born Learning Trail to promote early childhood learning and family fun

United Way of Central Missouri will hold a ribbon cutting on April 15 at 10 am at Memorial Park for the newly installed Born Learning Trail. Learning happens everywhere a child goes, but parents, grandparents and caregivers may not always know how to support that learning.

When parents, grandparents and caregivers take their children to the Born Learning Trail at Memorial Park, they’ll be able to play fun games together that will help the child come to school ready to succeed. That’s because United Way of Central Missouri and Jefferson City Parks and Recreation Foundation created an outdoor interactive early learning Trail at Memorial Park to help families turn excursions into fun learning moments.

The Born Learning Trail is a series of learning activities that any adult can play with young children. Based on the latest early childhood research and approved by national early learning experts through United Way Worldwide, the Born Learning Trail is designed to help adults interact with children to boost language and literacy development and to help caregivers understand how to best support early learning in outdoor everyday moments. There are 10 signs on the Born Learning Trail, each including activities such as Hopscotch and identifying shapes and letters. Watch! Stop! Learn! Play! Encourages the caregiver to follow the child’s lead, building the child’s curiosity and confidence.

“The Born Learning Trail promotes fun and games – important components of early childhood learning,” said Theresa Verslues, Vice-President of United Way of Central Missouri. “Research tells us children are literally ‘born learning.’ That means five years of education take place before they ever enter kindergarten. We know that what happens in a child’s early years matters – for success in life and for school readiness. And we want to help parents, grandparents, and caregivers use everyday outings…including trips to Memorial Park – to support that learning.”

United Way of Central Missouri established an Early Childhood Advisory Committee and identified three focus areas. To support and promote early childhood programs and initiatives in the Central Missouri area, provide Born Learning materials to low-income families as an introduction to early learning, and identify gaps in services/needs in early childhood in our community.

For more information on Born Learning resources go to www.bornlearning.org or contact the United Way office at (573) 636-4100.
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United Way of Central Missouri Early Childhood Advisory Committee Joins National Celebration of Week of the Young Child

The United Way of Central Missouri Early Childhood Advisory Committee and the Lincoln University- Assn. for the Education of Young Children, along with hundreds of local organizations around the country, will celebrate Week of the Young Child, April 11-17, 2010. Week of the Young Child honors more than 35 million children from birth through age eight in America, and the families, teachers, child care providers, and other adults who help children make the most of the opportunities during their early years.

Locally, Early Childhood Educators, Students and Child Care Providers will celebrate Week of the Young Child beginning April 10, 2010 with a Children’s Stroll downtown. Our theme for the week of the Young Child is “Early Years are Learning Years”. The stroll will begin at 10 am, with formation at 9:45 am at St. Peter Church. The stroll will end at Missouri River Regional Library with indoor and outdoor family activities. The downtown stroll is free and open to the public! Downtown businesses with exhibit children’s artwork from area child care providers from April 6 – 17.

In addition, there will be a Chamber Ribbon Cutting on April 15 at 10am at Memorial Park for the newly installed Born Learning Trail. The United Way Born Learning Trail is a series of learning activities that any adult can play with young children at Memorial Park along the walking trail near the toddler playground. It is sponsored by the Jefferson City Parks and Recreation Foundation.

The first local Early Childhood Educator Appreciation Banquet will be held on April 15 at 6:30pm at the YMCA, 424 Stadium Blvd, Jefferson City, MO. Doors open at 6:00pm. The banquet includes a Buffet Dinner from Madison’s Café, a speaker, Dr. L. Carol Scott on “The 7 Childhood Treasures”, recognition of Early Childhood Educators and door prizes. Tickets are $5.00. After April 9 tickets will be $10.00. For more information on the banquet contact Joanne Nelson (Missouri Child Care Resource and Referral Network) at 800-243-9685 or email: joanne@moccrrn.org. The banquet is sponsored by Scholastic and Central Missouri Association for the Education of Young Children. In addition, the event is made possible in partnership with United Way of Central Missouri Early Childhood Advisory Committee.

Week of the Young Child Events includes:
April 6 – 17 Downtown Businesses display children’s artwork from area childcare providers.

Wednesday, April 7 Child Advocacy Day – State Capitol – 9am – 3pm

Saturday, April 10 Children’s Downtown Stroll – 10am with formation at 9:45am at St. Peter Church. Stroll ends at Missouri River Regional Library with indoor and outdoor family activities.

Tuesday, April 13 9 am to 11 am- Kite Day at Helias High School Snacks provided/bring kites
Thursday, April 15 Rain Date for Kite Day

Thursday, April 15 Chamber Ribbon Cutting, Born Learning Trail, Memorial Park – 10am
Thursday, April 15 Early Childhood Appreciation Dinner – YMCA – Doors open at 6pm

Friday, April 16 Bring your child’s picture to work day.

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United Way of Central Missouri Announces President's Retirement

The Board of Directors of the United Way of Central Missouri announced the retirement of Linda McAnany, President/CPO effective mid-year. Linda will continue to actively contribute and serve our community while enjoying more time with family and friends. "Beacause of Linda's commitment to the United Way of Central Missouri, she did not want the spotlight to shift on her during the local United Way annual meeting held on Friday, February 12th, stated Dave Turner, 2010 Board Charman. "However, in December she told the Board of her plans."

Under McAnany's leadership the last nine years, the United Way has raised over $15 million to benefit and improve the lives of people in the Central Missouri community. She was also responsible for guiding local United Way volunteers in the formation of the 2001 and 2005 strategic plans and the establishment of the United Way of Central Missouri Foundation in 2003.

It is important that Linda's successor has a tie to the Jefferson City community" added Turner. "Understanding and collaborating with the local community and its leadership is essential to the sucess of our organization."

The United Way of Central Missouri helps fund the work of 25 partner agencies and programs serving Cole, Miller, Moniteau, Osage, and southern Callaway Counties. Over 90,000 individuals were served by these agencies last year.

A search committee has been formed. Interested parties may send a resume to the United Way CPO Search Committee at PO Box 0779, Attn: Human Resources-CPO UW, Jefferson City, MO 65102-0779.

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United Way Holds Annual Meeting

The United Way of Central Missouri officially began the 2010 business year with the Annual Meeting, held February 12 at Capitol Plaza Hotel. During the luncheon event, elections were held for the 2010 Governing Body and Board of Directors. Also, businesses and individuals were recognized for their commitment to the United Way in 2009.
Nineteen members of the Governing Body were elected to three-year terms. Five new members of the Board of Directors, Darla Porter, Modern Litho-Print, Bob Scruggs, Scruggs Lumber, Janet-Wear Enloe, Jefferson City Medical Group, Scott Vernon, Unilever, and Stan Koenigsfeld, Learfield Communications were also elected to three-year terms. Three board members, Dr. Carolyn Mahoney, Lincoln University, John Sheehan, Williams-Keepers LLC, and Dr. Bert Kimble were re-appointed to another three-year term.
The United Way of Central Missouri recognized five outgoing Board members, Don Perdue, Central Bank, Bernie Fechtel, Fechtel Beverages & Sales Inc., Darrell Moore, Modern Litho-Print, Mike Kehoe, Mike Kehoe Auto Group, and Gene Peterson, IBEW Local #2. Jeannie Moore, United Way of Central Missouri Foundation Board Member was also honored for her years of service. Dave Turner, Hawthorn Bank, will serve as the 2010 Board Chairman. Also, the 2009-2010 Campaign Co-chairs, Mike Kehoe, Mike Kehoe Auto Group and Warren Krech, Zimmer Radio Group were honored for their service and leading the community campaign by achieving the goal of $1.6 million.
Several individuals and businesses were recognized for their service to the United Way. Brenda Doyle, Senior Nutrition Council, was presented with the Ruth C. Meloy Award for Distinguished Service. That award recognizes a staff member of a United Way agency whose work and dedication exemplifies the mission of the United Way of Central Missouri. “She has done a great job and tirelessly works to find new resources for financial support for our program. She has met with local churches, civic organizations, City Council members and even the Mayor in efforts to make our community aware of this program. She is well thought of by all of us because of her concern for the well being of the elderly served by the Senior Nutrition Center. We are blessed to have her as our administrator”, said a volunteer from Senior Nutrition Council.
Bernie Fechtel, volunteer for Council for Drug Free Youth, United Way and many other United Way agencies, received the Volunteer of the Year Award. “Bernie has been instrumental in providing leadership of our agency. He has served as President, Coordinator of our strategic plan, and has made valuable contributions of time, energy, and finances to help the youth of our community. He has done just about everything from cleaning our office to providing free tickets to events for less fortunate children in our community”, said a volunteer from Council for Drug Free Youth. “In addition, Bernie has served on the United Way board for 7 years, having held the position of Vice-chair, Chairman, and Past-Chairman. He has also volunteered on the Nominating Committee, Long Range Planning Committee, and the Strategic Funding Committee to name just a few. He has been a past campaign co-chair. Actually he has probably served on every volunteer committee of the United Way at one time or another”, said Linda McAnany, President of United Way of Central Missouri.
Two central Missouri businesses received honors for their outstanding efforts during the Community Campaign. The William W. Quigg Awards were presented to Elsevier and Osage Industries both of Linn, Missouri. These awards were named after an individual who was not only a strong supporter of the United Way of Central Missouri but also the entire business community.
The United Way also recognized Missouri State employees for an outstanding Missouri State Charitable Campaign. In addition, five local companies were recognized for their workplace employee campaigns. This year, the top five workplace employee campaigns were: first place, Central Bank & Central Technology Services, second place, AmerenUE, third place, Scholastic Inc., fourth place, Jefferson City Public Schools, and fifth place was Jefferson Bank /Central Mortgage Company.
The United Way of Central Missouri Annual Meeting was sponsored by KOMU-TV8.

United Way to Hold Annual Meeting

The United Way of Central Missouri will officially begin the new year on Friday, February 12 with the Annual Meeting. The meeting will be held at 11:30am at Capitol Plaza Hotel. Elections for the United Way’s Governing Body and Board of Directors will be held during the meeting. Several awards will also be presented during the meeting, including William W. Quigg Awards, Volunteer of the Year Award and the Ruth C. Meloy Award, which is presented to a paid staff member of one of the 24 member agencies whose work and dedication exemplifies the mission of the United Way of Central Missouri.
The event, which is sponsored by KOMU, is open to the public. Tickets are $15 and will not be available at the door. The deadline to purchase tickets is Friday, February 5, 2010. Tickets can be purchased at the United Way office located at 1025 Southwest Boulevard, during regular business hours. For more information, please call 573-636-4100.

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