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United Way of Elkhart County Thanks Volunteers

November 13 2007

Elkhart, IN- Today at Christiana Creek Club, the United Way of Elkhart County took time to thank volunteers, contributors and company representatives. Art Decio presented the 23rd Volunteer of the Year Award to Nancy Banks.  “She is someone whose friends couldn’t all fit in this room and would range from toddlers to 90 year old seniors.  This Elkhart native is the definition of all it means to give back and to lend your heart to volunteering.”  This year, the United Way was fortunate to have a local impact story to use in their annual video.  Thanks to Brian Replogle and his son Austin, the community was able to view “Why United Way” from their story.  At the luncheon Brian who is also the president of the board at the Elkhart Child Development Center spoke more about his involvement with United Way. “Like many people, I never knew the true impact of United Way until nearly 7 years ago when Austin was injured. It is through Austin and his inspiring hard work that I have seen first hand the miracles of the generosity of the people of Elkhart County.”  Replogle urged everyone to “Continue the good fight and remember Austin, his family and the thousands of people with challenges in our community, that you serve everyday, who count on your efforts to make their lives livable.”  Paula Shively, President of the United Way Council of Agency Executives presented the United Way Executive Director of the Year award to Joan Andrews of the Family Christian Development Center in Nappanee.   The award is given to an individual who has shown outstanding leadership and participation in agency and United Way efforts during the past year.  This award is given each year to one peer nominated United Way Partner Agency executive.  Dan Oakley, 2007 Campaign Chairman took a moment to thank Brian and Austin Replogle for sharing their story during this year’s campaign.  The video truly depicts how the United Way system works together to provide a social service foundation in our community.  Oakley then recognized the campaign volunteers:
  • Chad Douglass- Elkhart Division
  • Steve Ostrander- Middlebury Division
  • Patty Baker- Wakarusa Division
  • Mike Varner- Goshen Division
  • Larry Andrews- Nappanee Division
  • Arthur J. Decio- Alexis de’Tocqueville
  • Frank Smole- Labor Divison
 Oakley thanked the many companies who have run excellent campaigns this year. He stated, “Because of their hard work and dedication to our community, I can say today we have 42% of our annual campaign in and confirmed.”   However, the United Way reported it is too early to call a number at this time and assured those present that they are still actively raising money.  “We are receiving daily reports back from companies and we anticipate being able to report back to everyone the results of this campaign in January.  Because, as we know results matter.” Oakley stated.  Oakley then introduced and welcomed Alex Strati as the incoming Campaign Chairman for 2008.   Dan Morrison, United Way Board President, thanked Dan Oakley for his volunteer service as the Campaign Chairman and presented him with an award.  He then took time to reflect on the past year’s accomplishments within the United Way.  ·        In April, the United Way 2-1-1 was nationally accredited after meeting 87 standards.  The United Way 2-1-1 call center offers the community a simple number to dial when looking for help through social and human services.   ·        The United Way also launched a new marketing campaign in an effort to better communicate the invaluable work they do in the community. This year’s campaign video featuring Brian and Austin Replogle is one of the successes of this new initiative.   ·        The community impact volunteers worked together to ensure the money raised last year went to valuable services which are provided through our partner agencies.  Morrison stated that all of the United Way partner agencies offer services that impact our daily lives.  The American Red Cross and the Goshen Salvation Army’s work in Nappanee during the tornado recovery effort offers one very poignant example of the importance of the United Way system.  These two partner agencies made sure that both survivors of the storm and volunteers were well fed and supported during the early phases of the disaster. Their hard work is only one of many examples why United Way support is essential in our community.  In closing, Jerry Quatman, President of the United Way shared his vision for the future of this United Way. 

WHY LIVE UNITED.

When we reach out a hand to one we influence the condition of all.

When you give to the United Way, you're lending a hand to your neighbors, family and friends who live right here in Elkhart County.

When we LIVE UNITED... Elkhart County does more... it's that simple.

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EDUCATION.

Helping children and youth achieve their potential.

  • Kindergarten Readiness
    Readiness to succeed in school means children enter kindergarten developmentally on track.
  • Elementary Readiness
    Reading on grade-level by fourth grade means elementary students are prepared to succeed in later grades and to graduate from high school
  • High School Graduation
    Academic achievement is reflected in one-time high school graduation rates

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Promoting financial stability and independence.

  • Adult Education
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  • Dental
    Untreated dental health problems interfere with the ability to learn, eat and work.
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    If a person is hungry, everything else in life becomes a challenge.
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    How can a family best learn the fundamental skills they need to successfully navigate a difficult diagnosis?

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