United Way is the collaborator that brings businesses and communities together to create positive impact. The real value of United Way goes beyond the dollars it raises—it’s about how lives are being changed in the community. This important work continues to be rooted in listening to our community, identifying needs and working collaboratively to address root problems.
The 2017 United Way campaign served as a shining example of community collaboration and impact. Facing a variety of community challenges including the devastating flood, local organizations rallied together to lend a hand and lift up their neighbors in need. Due to this incredible generosity, United Way was able to exceed the $4.8 million goal by raising $4,814,517.
The Board of Directors held their Annual Meeting in March at the Strosacker Center. In addition to celebrating the impactful work taking place throughout the community, the board recognized outgoing board members and welcomed new incoming board members.
The board recognized outgoing board members Cliff Block, Kent Holsing, Shawn Pnacek, Jack Telfer and Jen Lee, and thanked them for their dedication. Additionally, Mike Sharrow and Sarah Opperman committed to a second three-year term.
New board members were also elected at the Annual Meeting, including Ann Beck from Chemical Bank, Matt Granzo from A.S. Arbury Insurance, and Young Leaders United representative Nick Powell from The Dow Chemical Company.
2018 board officers were elected as well, including Tori Meyer as President, Sarah Opperman as Vice President, Jim Nigro as Treasurer, Mike Sharrow as Secretary and Wally Mayton as Past President.
“We’re so fortunate to have a dedicated board filled with strong community leaders and advocates,” added Ann Fillmore. “Along with our new officers elected for 2018, we’re positioned to do great things in the coming year.”
United Way of Midland County is pleased to announce that Bridgette Gransden, Midland County Administrator/Controller, will serve as the Campaign Chair for the 2018 United Way of Midland County campaign. In addition to serving as the 2018 Campaign Chair, Bridgette is currently serving on the MidMichigan Medical Center Midland Board of Directors, Midland Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, Community Success Panel, and the Midland Area Community Foundation’s Impact Grant and Scholarship Selection Committees as well as the Michigan Municipal Executives Board of Directors.
“We’re thrilled to have Bridgette on board as our Campaign Chair this year,” stated Ann Fillmore. “She’s a strong community advocate, a former Torch Bearer award recipient, and her eagerness to lead this campaign speaks to her passion for our community.”
The 2017 Annual Report, allocations and financial statement can be downloaded via United Way’s website at www.unitedwaymidland.org under About Us/Finances.
