The United Way of Rutherford and Cannon Counties recently hosted a virtual edition of its Community Celebration, an annual meeting recognizing the organization's impact and accomplishments over the most previous fiscal year. United Way highlighted the power of 966 volunteers and 10,897 donors resulting in 18,325 volunteer hours and over $3 million dollars raised.
The United Way also announced that $1.1 million was saved by Rutherford and Cannon county residents through United Way’s partnership with the FamilyWize prescription discount program. The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program saw an economic impact of $1.8 million. Over 187,000 Imagination Library books were delivered to children in Rutherford and Cannon counties through the Books from Birth program. Over 4,500 referrals were made through 2-1-1, United Way’s informational and referral service, for individuals seeking assistance in Rutherford and Cannon counties. Charity Tracker, a case management and agency communications tool, saw the value in services providing $653,000 this year and providing 33,000 records of assistance. Most recently, United Way collected over 13,000 school supplies for Stuff the Bus.
The United Way of Rutherford and Cannon Counties recognized Gordon and Cindy Ferguson as the Witherspoon Society Award recipients, Matthew Stump as Volunteer of the Year, Vikki Holt as Employee Campaign Manager of the Year, Jason King and Courtney Chavez as Young Leaders of the Year, and the late Dr. Linda Gilbert as Advocate of the Year.
Additional recognition included Publix Super Markets and Publix Super Markets Charities as recipient of the Community Impact Award. The Community Impact Award is evaluated on partnerships that advance the mission of United Way. First Baptist Church Murfreesboro received the Community Engagement Award for their outstanding participation in United Way volunteer events. Adient received the Rise Award for the largest increase in giving.
“The success of our local United Way is critical to the future of our community. United Way’s unique value lies in its ability to identify issues, develop partnerships, implement solutions and measure results. The support of our community translates directly to the success of United Way and its ability to fulfill its mission and vision,” said Meagan Flippin, President and CEO of the United Way of Rutherford and Cannon Counties.
The Community Celebration was presented by Publix Super Markets and Publix Super Markets Charities. Supporting sponsors included: Dr. James E. and Mrs. Beverly R. Calder, FirstBank, Middle Tennessee Electric Membership Corporation, Regions Bank, Wilson Bank and Trust, Redstone Federal Credit Union, Saint Thomas Rutherford Hospital, and Steve Fuchcar of Hall, Davidson and Associates.
For more information, please visit www.yourlocaluw.org.