By NEAL WAGNER / Managing Editor

ALABASTER – The United Way of Central Alabama is looking to more directly help those in need in Shelby County this year, and is looking for the public’s support to make it happen.

Over the past few months, the United Way has been meeting with Shelby County business and government leaders to secure pledges for the nonprofit organization’s 2014 campaign.

“For the first time, this year’s United Way Shelby County cabinet is made up of a group of leaders who both work and live in Shelby County, so there is definitely a vested interest in making a difference and increasing support,” Shelby County United Way Chairwoman Sophie Martin, who is also an Alabaster City Council member, wrote in an email.

Through its campaigns each year, the United Way raises the bulk of the money it donates to local agencies – such as Shelby Emergency Assistance, which helps those facing a crisis, and SafeHouse of Shelby County, which provides services and support for victims of domestic and sexual violence.

This year, the United Way is holding a separate campaign kickoff event for Shelby County, and is placing a greater emphasis on supporting Shelby County agencies with the funds raised in the county.

The Shelby County kickoff event will begin at 11:30 a.m. on Sept. 16 in the courtroom of Alabaster’s City Hall. Shelby County Commissioner Mike Vest will speak during the kickoff, as will United Way of Central Alabama CEO Drew Langloh, before the agency begins in earnest its 2014 fundraising campaign.

To RSVP to attend the kickoff event, email United Way Relationship Manager Sarah Ficke at sficke@uwca.org.

“More than 750,000 Alabamians use United Way services every year. Thousands of those in need live right here in Shelby County,” Martin said. “Supporting the more than 30 United Way agencies in our area means a better Shelby County for everyone.”
To donate to the United Way 2014 campaign, or to view a listing of United Way agencies with Shelby County connections, visit Shelbyal.com/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=34.