FROM STAFF REPORTS

United Way of Central Alabama launched its Shelby County Campaign with a Kickoff Breakfast held at Summer Classics in Pelham on Sept. 24.

Edna Felton, Alabama Power accounting services manager, serves as the 2019 Shelby County Campaign chair. Felton welcomed guests and explained the impact United Way has on the county, such as providing funds to support 20 agencies and programs within the area like Arc of Shelby County, Central Alabama Children’s Fund, Shelby Emergency Assistance and the YMCA. Felton also announced the 2019 county goal of $2,752,990.

This year, three companies in Shelby County participated in United Way’s Pacesetter (summer) Campaign: Altec, Pradco, and Specification Rubber Products. These companies combined had a 49-percent increase in funds donated to the campaign by their employees.

Brasfield and Gorrie Executive Vice President and United Way Campaign Chair, Jeff Stone, served as the keynote speaker. Stone gave a complete picture of UWCA from its 80 partner agencies to a dozen in-house programs. He also shared with the audience that 126,000 residents of Shelby County were assisted by United Way this past year, which is nearly 60 percent of the total population.

Stone said, “I want to live in a vibrant community where everyone can reach their full potential, and I believe United Way is making that happen.”

United Way fights for the health, education and financial stability of every person in every community. Through partner agencies and community initiatives, the organization works to improve lives and community conditions by building and mobilizing resources.

To learn more about United Way’s impact in our community, visit www.uwca.org.