United Way discusses accomplishments of 2024, looks to 2025
The United Way of Greater St. Joseph met on Thursday to discuss the accomplishments of the organization from 2024, as well as looking to what they want to achieve in 2025.
The organization's retiring Board Chair, Phil Gould, spoke at the event, as well as the new Board Chair, Michelle Clark.
Gould explained that in 2024, The United Way of Greater St. Joseph raised $2.5 million through the United Way Campaign to aid the community.
Gould shared his experience of being Chair this past year.
"United Way invests in their people and this community," Gould said. "And it's just been an honor to be the Chair of this Board. The Board members are excellent and we're just so happy to just be a part of this community."
Three awards were given out by United Way to recognize the accomplishments of the community.
The Outstanding Partner award went to the St. Joseph School District and the Spirit of Community award to Commerce Bank.
The Outstanding Volunteer award was given in remembrance of Terri Modlin.
Mayor John Josendale also took the stage to present two awards, with one honor going to Gould and the other to Doug and Carol Walter.
Clark, the new Chair of the United Way Board, said that the organization has big plans for the upcoming year.
"We're going to bring back 'Taste of United Way,'" Clark said. "It's a great way for the community to get to know us while eating food. It's perfect. And then we're also going to pilot a program called 'The Caring Power of Community.' Working title, but basically it's another opportunity for our community to get involved in United Way with other items besides the usual volunteer opportunities."
Clark expressed excitement to work with the community in St. Joseph.
"We have a lot going on in St. Joe and I'm really excited for United Way to be a part of it," Clark said.
United Way is a nonprofit organization that strives to help the community. The group also helps connect St. Joseph residents to volunteer opportunities.
More information about United Way can be found at stjosephunitedway.org.
