The 2015 United Way Thank You Celebration Thursday evening saw two members awarded for service and the announcement of contributions to the organization during the prior year. President Joel Harstine announced that the 2014 campaign raised $1,855,915 plus another $125,000 of new money, which will be matched by the Work2Gether grant from Indiana Association of United Ways. Those funds are earmarked for kindergarten readiness programs in every elementary school in the county, he said. Vice President Josh Gordon awarded the Volunteer of the Year for 2014 award to Siobhan Davenport. Gordon said, “United Way takes the time to recognize one individual who embodies the mission and values of the United Way through their donation of time and their skills. Because of their giving in so many ways, they strengthen this organization.” Davenport was recognized for her service during the past five years. She has served on the Vision Council since 2010, and for many years has worked hard for Day of Caring, he said, including transplanting some of her own flowers into a recipient’s yard. She also served on the committee to move Day of Caring into the Day of Action. Bill Roper, CTB Inc., was awarded the Key Leader of the Year award earlier in the week since he was traveling and not able to attend the ceremony. Harstine described Roper as an individual who has worked very hard to raise awareness of United Way in his company. Through his efforts, he increased that company’s total campaign by over 11 percent. Harstine said that he set the tone for his workplace campaign and oversaw the components of the drive. Gordon showed a promotional video, which featured a few of the organization’s agencies: Kindergarten Countdown, Fellowship Missions and Heartline Pregnancy Center. According to United Way, it funds programs that support the focus, programs of education, income and health that cause lasting results.
