By By Kelly Quackenbush/The Meridian Star
April 6, 2001
Donnie Smith hopes to continue last year's momentum for the United Way of Lauderdale County as he takes over as its president.
Smith, who served as chairman of the 2000 campaign, officially took over from past president Wade Sims in the annual "changing of the guard."
Last year's campaign raised nearly $765,000, which was $5,000 above the goal. This was the first time in three years that the goal had been met.
Each year, United Way volunteers lead a fund-raising campaign that partially funds 16 non-profit human services agencies in Lauderdale County. These agencies provide services to people throughout East Mississippi and West Alabama.
Louis Sutton Jr. was officially introduced as the United Way's Executive Director at the meeting.
Other officers announced at the annual meeting were Joel Johnson of Anderson Health and Fitness Center, campaign chairman; Cindy Dyess of Riley Hospital, vice-chair marketing and resources development; Amy Boutwell of Peavey Electronics, vice-chair resource distribution; Tammy Eason of MSU-Meridian, vice-chair community building; Anthony Wilson of Mississippi Power, secretary; and Alan Stewart of Bank Plus, treasurer.
Smith praised the campaign committee and attributed the goal accomplishment to:
The Pacesetter Campaign led by Johnson;
Leadership giving, which increased in participation from 45 to 71, thanks to The Meridian Star's weekly postings, according to Smith; and,
Having more citizens volunteering than ever before.
The top ten contributors for the 2000 campaign were: Rush Health Systems, Jeff Anderson Regional Medical Center, Peavey Electronics, Mississippi Power, Atlas Roofing, Williams Company, Riley Foundation, Meridian Public Schools, United Parcel Service and Avery Dennison.
Kelly Quackenbush is a staff writer for The Meridian Star. E-mail her at kquackenbush@themeridianstar.com.
Did you know:
The money raised from the 2000 campaign will be spread among the following organizations:
American Red Cross
Meridian Speech &Hearing Center
Meals on Wheels Program
Boy Scouts
Boys and Girls Club
Care Lodge
Community of Hope
Foster Grandparents
Friendship Center
Hilltop Home for Boys
Hilltop Home for Girls
Girl Scouts
Mental Health Association
R&SVP
Peavey House
Salvation Army
Teen Learning Center
Wesley House
Youth Excitement Team