United Way exceeds goal; recognizes contributors

Corey Johnson with CMJ Financial received special recognition for his work for Oktoberfest, as the Hidden Hero Award, presented by United Way Executive Director Peggy Tedlock. Floyd Jernigan/Daily Mail

Nevada Daily Mail

The United Way of Vernon County had even more than usual to celebrate at its annual appreciation and awards luncheon Wednesday at the Nevada Country Club.

Every year, the campaign sets a fundraising goal to help fund 18 local agencies.

Representing 3M Company, which was recognized as the largest overall contributor, were, from left, Bill Miller, Patty Bennett, Linda Houck, Megan Welch, and Brian Sandon. Floyd Jernigan/Daily Mail

For the past several years, the goal has been $112,000. And once again, the efforts of the volunteers, businesses and individuals have come together to meet that goal.

This year, the goal was not only met, it was exceeded. Adam Dean, United Way board member and co-chair of the fund drive, told those in attendance that $117,200 was raised.

"This speaks to the type of community we live in. The community increased giving, even in an economic time that was not advantageous to do so."

US Bank Home Mortgage received plaques for having the highest per capita giving with businesses of 100 or more employees. On hand for the award were, from left, Deb Gier, Becky Overton, Amanda Poulter, and Greg Villagomez. Floyd Jernigan/Daily Mail

Appreciation for such efforts began with the sponsors of the banquet, recognition of those committee members who worked on Oktoberfest (United Way's major fundraiser), and the Challenge Program coordinators at their respective participating businesses and industries.

Special awards were given to the largest overall contributor, 3M; 100 percent participation, KCP&L and Empire District Gas Company; most improved, Nevada Regional Medical Center; highest per capita (3-24) employees, Empire District Gas; and highest per capita (100 plus) employees, US Bank Home Mortgage; and the first ever "Hidden Hero," Corey Johnson.

Johnson was thanked for his and his crew's efforts at sprucing up the US Bank lot, which is the site of the Oktoberfest daylong event.

Deanna Giessel with Empire District Gas and Kelli Brannan and Heather Brockmeyer with Nevada Regional Medical Center accepted the awards. Empire had 100 percent participation and had the highest per capita, with 3-24 employees. NRMC was recognized for most improved. Floyd Jernigan/Daily Mail

"Not only did he remove the dead tree and overgrown shrubs from the lot, but he leveled the ground and reseeded the area as well," noted United Way Director Peggy Tedlock.

All of these efforts make it possible for the member agencies to benefit fully from the proceeds from the fund drive.

The member agencies include a variety of non-profits and community organizations.

Community Outreach's main focus is providing food, but can also help those needing emergency help with rent and utilities on a limited basis.

Birthright helps those dealing with unplanned pregnancies. Counseling, maternity and baby needs are offered.

Ozarks Trail Council Boy Scouts of America and Girl Scouts of the Missouri Heartland provide programs for youth.

The Vernon County Child Advocacy Council's goal is to educate and prevent child abuse and neglect, with parent education classes.

The Children's Center works for child advocacy with members of law enforcement and the courts in abuse cases.

Special Olympics Missouri, SW Area, offers a physical outlet and a way to participate in competition as an individual and as a team for those with special needs.

The Vernon County Senior Center helps those over the age of 60 with everything from food to transportation to in-home services.

On My Own helps youth and adults with disabilities to reach their goals.

Children's Mercy Hospital provides health and well-being services to children regardless of the ability to pay.

The Neighbors Center offers daytime adult day care for ages 18 and over, providing temporary relief for the caregiver of those who are homebound, elderly or disabled.

University of Missouri Extension of Vernon County provides cooperative extension work such as 4-H, in agriculture and home economics.

The Council on Families in Crisis, Moss House, provides shelter for sexual and domestic violence victims.

The Vernon County Ministerial Alliance Emergency Relief Fund helps transients with financial aid.

Nevada Youth Recreational Baseball has some 200 youth each year competing in its program, learning discipline and teamwork.

American Red Cross/Southern Missouri Region Nevada office helps those who have been the victims of natural disasters and fires as well as supporting local firefighters.

Vernon County Adult Recovery Court provides an alternative to prison, with a goal "of giving the graduates their life back."

Vernon County People for Pets takes in unwanted animals and works to find them homes.

"Many of the agencies would not be able to survive without the generous support of the Vernon County community," said Tedlock.

Donations, which are 100 percent tax deducible, are still welcome. Contact the local United Way office at 417-667-5563.