Story provided by United Way of Payne County
United Way of Payne County (UWPC) celebrated reaching its $1 million campaign goal on Dec. 14 at the Stillwater YMCA.
United Way board members, staff and representatives from some of its 22 partner agencies gathered outside to watch the campaign thermometer get updated, which represents achieving 100% of the goal. Also in attendance were Mayor Will Joyce, OSU Police Chief Leon Jones and Ruth Cavins, executive director of United Way of Payne County.
“The United Way campaign is a beautiful collaboration of individuals and businesses coming together to alleviate some of the most pervasive issues impacting our community,” Cavins said.
“It takes money to keep our safety net of nonprofit partner agencies operating. I am humbled by the generosity of our donors who contribute to ensure that safety net remains strong.”
Matt Thomas, who agreed to be campaign co-chair with his wife, Debbie, stood among the celebratory group. Matt said he decided to join the board after witnessing the commitment of his workplace, Kicker, and its employees during their annual United Way campaign.
Regarding why he accepted the responsibility of being co-chair, Matt said it was because of his years of getting to know the other board members and knowing how hard they work.
Each spring, the UWPC Community Investment Committee conducts a rigorous review process of the nonprofit agencies that apply for funding to determine grant awards. Funding decisions are based on each agency’s ability to meet the needs of the communities in Payne County, which include Stillwater, Perkins, Cushing, Glencoe, Ripley and Yale. Beginning in January 2024, UWPC’s 22 accredited nonprofit partner agencies will begin receiving a monthly allocation of proceeds from the annual campaign.
This is the third year United Way of Payne County has set and accomplished a $1 million goal.
“The key to the success of the United Way model is that every gift, from large to small, is added together to reach our $1 million goal. Everyone who contributes should feel pride in that success,” Cavins said.
Those yet to make donations can still do so. Anyone interested in contributing can visit unitedwaypaynecounty.org, or call 405-377-2161. They may also stop by the office at 109 East 9th Ave in Stillwater.
When you donate to United Way of Payne County, you support the work of 22 nonprofits, which collectively impact more than 75,000 Payne County individuals and families each year. To learn more or donate visit www.unitedwaypaynecounty.org or call 405-377-2161.