LIVE UNITED GIVE. ADVOCATE. VOLUNTEER. Newsletter | Fall 2012 United Way’s 2012 Kick-Off Event! United Way Virginia Highlands Serving Russell, Smyth and Washington Counties The United Way has done invaluable work helping children become healthy productive members of society, NFL Hall of Famer and Va. Tech graduate, Bruce Smith told some 400 officials and volunteers during this year’s United Way regional campaign kickoff. “We were so honored to have Bruce Smith come and help us kick- off the regional campaign for all United Ways in our area,” said Event Chairman, Wayne Austin, Abingdon, VA Attorney. “Smith recognizes the value of children staying and succeeding in school and living active, healthy lifestyles.” This year’s event was held at the Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center on August 9th, hosted by United Way Virginia Highlands and paid for by a sponsorship from Mountain States Health Alliance. The event brought together primary United Way locations across Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia with key stake holders to launch a campaign geared toward improving the communities where individuals live, work and educate their children. Much of the event focused on the important role that education, income and health plays in strengthening communities. “For more than 35 years, the National Football League- owners, coaches, players and staff- has been working with United Ways to strengthen communities,”said Stacey Pomrenke, Board Chair for United Way Virginia Highlands. “Most recently our partnership is leveraging resources and relationships to raise awareness about the issue of childhood obesity and create new opportunities for young people to lead healthier lifestyles.” “This is a key component of United Way’s 2018 national goal to increase by one-third the number of healthy youth,” said Travis Staton, Chief Executive Officer for United Way Virginia Highlands. “We are proud to be part of a nation-wide movement to promote health, education and income within our community, state and nation to further United Way’s critical mission.” During his luncheon speech, Smith told the gathering about being an underprivileged Norfolk youth who received encouragement to keep pursuing his goals from numerous sources - including groups supported by the United Way. Smith said there is still a huge need for United Way groups to continue empowering youths to dream and achieve, especially with the growing challenges that children continue to face. “Thank God for organizations like the United Way,” Smith said. “The reason I stand before you today, is because organizations like the United Way saw more in me [as a youth] than I saw in myself.” While wearing a “Live United” t-shirt during his speech, Smith shared personal experiences of his childhood as he communicated his strong belief that every person can--and should--do his part to create positive, long-lasting change in their community. “We have to be a part of their lives, even if they aren’t our children,” said Smith. “When we make this investment, we create ‘teammates’ instead of ‘inmates’ - ‘leaders’ instead of ‘followers.’ “ Pictured from left to right: Chris Matras Brittany Lewis Alan Jones Whitney Rosenbaum Bruce Smith Rick Nida Burke Vander Lind
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LIVE UNITEDGIVE. ADVOCATE. VOLUNTEER.
Newsletter | Fall 2012
United Way’s 2012 Kick-Off Event!
United Way Virginia HighlandsServing Russell, Smyth and Washington Counties
The United Way has done invaluable work helping children become healthy productive members of society, NFL Hall of Famer and Va. Tech graduate, Bruce Smith told some 400 officials and volunteers during this year’s United Way regional campaign kickoff.
“We were so honored to have Bruce Smith come and help us kick-off the regional campaign for all United Ways in our area,” said Event Chairman, Wayne Austin, Abingdon, VA Attorney. “Smith recognizes the value of children staying and succeeding in school and living active, healthy lifestyles.”
This year’s event was held at the Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center on August 9th, hosted by United Way Virginia Highlands and paid for by a sponsorship from Mountain States Health Alliance. The event brought together primary United Way locations across Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia with key stake holders to launch a campaign geared toward improving the communities where individuals live, work and educate their children. Much of the event focused on the important role that education, income and health plays in strengthening communities.
“For more than 35 years, the National Football League- owners, coaches, players and staff- has been working with United Ways to strengthen communities,” said Stacey Pomrenke, Board Chair for United Way Virginia Highlands. “Most recently our partnership is leveraging resources and relationships to raise awareness about the issue of childhood obesity and create new opportunities for young people to lead healthier lifestyles.”
“This is a key component of United Way’s 2018 national goal to increase by one-third the number of healthy youth,” said Travis Staton, Chief Executive Officer for United Way Virginia Highlands. “We are proud to be part of a nation-wide movement to promote health, education and income within our community, state and nation to further United Way’s critical mission.”
During his luncheon speech, Smith told the gathering about being an underprivileged Norfolk youth who received encouragement to keep pursuing his goals from numerous sources - including groups supported by the United Way. Smith said there is still a huge need for United Way groups to continue empowering youths to dream and achieve, especially with the growing challenges that children continue to face.
“Thank God for organizations like the United Way,” Smith said. “The reason I stand before you today, is because organizations like the United Way saw more in me [as a youth] than I saw in myself.” While wearing a “Live United” t-shirt during his speech, Smith shared personal experiences of his childhood as he communicated his strong belief that every person can--and should--do his part to create positive, long-lasting change in their community.
“We have to be a part of their lives, even if they aren’t our children,” said Smith. “When we make this investment, we create ‘teammates’ instead of ‘inmates’ - ‘leaders’ instead of ‘followers.’ “
Pictured from left to right:Chris MatrasBrittany LewisAlan JonesWhitney RosenbaumBruce SmithRick NidaBurke Vander Lind
2012 Merger...Creating United Way Virginia HighlandsThings You Should Know...
Community Impact – Your Dollars at Work
Call to Action-Volunteer Opportunities
In a move aimed at leveraging strengths and resources to create the greatest impact in Southwest Virginia, United Way officials announced the merger of United Way of Russell and Washington Counties with the United Way Smyth County, Virginia. The newly formed organization will operate under the title United Way Virginia Highlands and will serve the Russell, Smyth and Washington County Virginia areas. The goal of the merger is to leverage the strengths and resources of each organization to streamline operations and increase funding and program services for each of the three counties.
» The monies raised in campaigns throughout the three regions will continue to be used to serve those communities from which it was raised.
» Local volunteers from each area will still determine the best use of the donor dollars raised in their region based on local needs. All donor designation wishes will be honored.
» We have added four board members from Smyth County. These board members will play a key role in the decision making process for Smyth County. Those new board members are: Samantha Archer, Audrey Powers, Dr. Michael Robinson, & Jessica Schwartz.
If you have forgotten how much fun The Cat in the Hat, Henry and Mudge or learning about the world can be - this is your chance to rediscover it through the eyes of a child. The Be a Buddy Program improves students' academic scores and behavior to ensure their path to gaining an education, employment and economic prosperity. The Be a Buddy is a collaborative partnership with the United Way Virginia Highlands and Big Brothers Big Sisters, along with local school systems.
Today, United Way Virginia Highlands is calling for 100 volunteers to “Be a Buddy” in Kindergarten through 5th grade. Currently, positions are available in Abingdon, Bristol and Meadowview schools. No special skills are necessary. All volunteers will need to fill out an application/background check forms and be trained (30-45 minute session). Volunteers are asked to devote 30-60 minutes a week throughout the school year with their buddy (during school hours). All Buddy programs are designed with the child's teacher.
To volunteer visit UWVH.ORG to pledge your support today!
On the first Wednesday in October, Chilhowie High School hosted the annual Smyth County Special Games, which provides a day of competition and fun for individuals with “special abilities!” Over 300 athletes, ages 2-65, take part in running, throwing, and jumping events
and every athlete receives a ribbon for their efforts; no one is left out. The games are made possible from funds donated by the United Way Virginia Highlands, and local businesses also pitch in to donate food and drinks.
This year, Special Games was able to have, as an extra bonus, inflatables for the athletes to enjoy. The games are run by the seniors from three Smyth County high schools. Susan Kilby, coordinator of Special games says, “This is one event where everyone benefits! There is always an atmosphere of understanding and acceptance. No one walks away empty handed and most people leave with their hearts full!” Kilby likes to think of this day as a “day that changes lots of individuals’ perceptions of those who might be a little different one way or another.” Kilby quotes Dr. Adela A. Allen in saying, "We should acknowledge differences, we should greet differences, until difference makes no difference anymore." That is what life is all about!
Smyth County Special Games 2012On October 20, 2011, United Way Virginia Highlands contributed $10,000 to help establish an Adult Drug Court in Washington County designed to provide treatment services in order to help substance abuse offenders achieve long-term sobriety. On September 7th, 2012 United Way, along with the Washington County Drug Court announced its first graduate of the program, Bridget Matney. “I feel very confident in my future,” Matney said. “My kids are happy, I’m home from jail and I’m clean. I’m in a happy place.”
The numbers show the success behind Matney’s graduation, including $35,600 in savings that taxpayers would have paid to jail Matney over the past year. Currently, a federal grant is in the works, which will fund the program for the next three years. United Way anticipates additional program successes where participants become healthy productive members of society. “It is a life-changing event for participants, their families, and more importantly, for the community,” said Sage Johnson, 28th Circuit Court of Virginia Judge.
Today, Matney lives with her parents and her three children, has a driver’s license, and works a steady job at a grocery store. She has been drug-free for 19 months and said her next step is to find a place of her own.
Pictured above: Bridget J. Matney
Pictured above: John Bowerbank
Washington County’s first Drug Court Graduate
Pictured above: David Robinson & Gavin Dalton
2012 Campaign Highlights
CALLING ALL VOLUNTEERS!
Project Location:Damascus Senior Center209 North Legion StreetDamascus, VA 24236
Recommended Team Size: 5–10 individualsEstimated Project Duration Time: 2 HoursDates: Anytime except Wednesdays and Thursdays
Pictured above: Veronica Linthicum
United Way Welcomes New Business PartnerDickenson-Russell Coal Company joins the United Way in this year’s campaign. Headquartered in Cleveland, Virginia, Dickenson-Russell Coal is an affiliate of Alpha Natural Resources, a major contributor to the United Way since 2004. Dedra Helbert, Dickenson-Russell Human Resource Manager remarks “The need for the United Way is crucial in our communities, not only to meet our current needs, but to prevent some of these needs from ever existing in the first place. The leadership here at D-R is excited about this new partnership and looks forward to a successful campaign.”
Dickenson-Russell Coal Company, LLC maintains three underground mines, a preparation plant and a support crew in Dickenson and Russell Counties in Virginia employing around 300.
AT&T “Rethink’s Possible”AT&T is well known for the slogan “Rethink Possible,” not just on the technology market, but also on the employee campaigns market. AT&T Lebanon Call Center has been participating in the United Way campaign for six years now and since their first campaign in 2006, their commitment to innovation and the United Way has been apparent as they have seen contributions consistently increase year-after-year. AT&T campaign coordinators, Tony Barton and Veronica Linthicum don’t just assist with setting up presentations by United Way Staff for call center employees, they also coordinate special events, team competitions, and giveaways. The most recent, as photographed, was a Little Caesar’s Pizza sale. Veronica Linthicum, Customer Operations Team Manager, remarked “We were excited to be participating in the United Way campaign this year and we knew from previous experience that doing a pizza sale would allow us an easy strategy where all of our employees could contribute.”
Corporate Partner Highlight:As this year’s Food City United Way campaign wraps up, employees at the Marion store continue to show their support. Food City, one of United Way Virginia Highlands strongest community partners, has been a long time supporter of the United Way. Steve Smith, President and Chief Executive Officer remarks, “I firmly believe that we each have an obligation to help make our community a better place to live, work and educate our children. That’s my personal and corporate philosophy and I would like to thank our loyal customers and associates for their continued support of the United Way.” Travis Staton, United Way Virginia Highlands Chief Executive Officer shares, “Food City truly understands the importance in investing in the community and we are blessed by their support.”
Food City is one of three of United Way Virginia Highland’s corporate partners, also to include Alpha Natural Resources and Universal Fibers. Corporate partners are committed to the United Way, and make corporate contributions in an effort to help offset the necessary overhead of United Way so that more of their employees’ dollars may be invested in the community.
If you are interested in learning more about Corporate Partnership opportunities, or hosting an employee fund-drive, please contact Director of Resource Development, Alison Hicks at 276-628-2160 or [email protected].
Pictured above: Cindy Mitchum, Dale Scott, Tim Simpson, & Jason Jackson
Dickenson-Russell Coal Company, LLC
Serving Russell, Smyth and Washington Counties
United Way Virginia Highlands
201 Preston St.
P.O. Box 644
Abingdon, VA 24212
Ph: (276)-628-2160
Fax: (276)-628-8484
UWVH.ORG
New Faces at UWVHA native of Chilhowie, Virginia, Leah Farmer began at United Way in September as the Marketing and Communications Manager. She comes to us with over 5 years of marketing and design experience, as well as experience in the non-profit sector. Before joining United Way, Leah worked at Coburn Creative, an advertising agency located in Glade Spring. There she gained vast knowledge in web design and editing as well as print
design and marketing as a whole. Prior to Coburn Creative, Leah worked in Washington D.C. for a women’s non-profit organization. Leah holds a Bachelors of Arts degree in Graphic Design and Advertising from Concord University in Athens, West Virginia. In her spare time, she likes to spend time with her husband, Nathan, as well as with family and contribute to church activities. Leah currently resides in Meadowview with her husband, 2 dogs and cat.
A native of Grundy, Virginia, Crystal Breeding moved to the area to further her career and education. For 3 years, Crystal has been a Business Development Manager at People Incorporated of Virginia, assisting entrepreneurs with business start up/expansion, counseling and training while establishing the community contacts and relationships. Prior to People Incorporated, Crystal worked as a Practice Coordinator with Blue Ridge Orthopedics & Sports Medicine in Abingdon, Virginia. A graduate of
Tusculum College in Greeneville, Tennessee, Crystal holds a Bachelors Degree in Organizational Management and a Masters Degree in Organizational Training and Education. She also holds a Masters Degree in Business Administration from King College in Bristol, Tennessee and is furthering her interest in obtaining a Certificate in Grant Writing. In her spare time, she loves sports, exploring outdoors, church activities, and spending time with her family. Crystal began at United Way on November 1 as the Resource and Development Manager. She currently resides in Abingdon with her daughter Emily and husband Gary.
NONPROFITORG.
US POSTAGEPAID
PERMIT NO. 4ABINGDON, VA
Corporate Partners
United Way Virginia Highlands would like to thank the following organizations and individuals that have contributed to this years Backpacks Unite Program.
2012 Backpacks Unite Volunteer ScheduleFriday, September 28, 2012 UPS
Friday, October 26, 2012 4-H/ Virginia Cooperative Association
Monday, December 3, 2012 Dominion Power
Monday, January 7, 2013 Public Session/Abingdon Rotary Club
Monday, January 28, 2013 Russell County Rotary Club
Monday, February 25, 2013 Russell County Medical Center &Russell County Ministerial Association
Monday March 25, 2013 4-H/Holston High School
Monday, April 29, 2013 Public Session
» Abingdon Rotary Foundation » Mr. and Mrs. John and Mary Sue Adams » Ms. Brenda Bingham » Margaret W. Countiss » Mr. and Mrs. A.G. and Shirley Griffith » Mr. & Mrs. Gary and Susan Kimbrell If you are interested in volunteering with United Way’s Backpacks Unite Program, please call us at: 276-628-2160.
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» Russell County Ministerial Fellowship » Russell County Rotary Club » Mr. Daniel D. Ryan » The Office Place » Mr. Henry Dawson
