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On Wednesday, Aug. 31 at 11:45 a.m., the United Way of West Georgia will hold its annual campaign kickoff at Del’Avant to celebrate the beginning of its fundraising season.

The 2022 campaign theme, “Stronger United”, will be in full display with Chief Lou Dekmar of the LaGrange Police Department, and Sheriff James Woodruff of the Troup County Sheriff’s Office teaming up as the event’s keynote speakers. The “Stronger United” kickoff event will be open to the community.

The United Way campaign takes place during the months of August-December annually to raise funds for the United Way and their partner agencies. All partners are local organizations that provide assistance in our local community. Following each campaign season, an allocations process, that is open to volunteers and led by the Board of Directors, distributes the campaign funds to meet agency needs. For a full list of partner agencies, visit unitedwaywga.org/partners.

“Stronger United” has been the campaign theme for the past two years, and was inspired by how the pandemic highlighted the need for community. The organization has served West Georgia for 65 years, working to mobilize local community partners thanks to local community donors.

“When we work together, we can make West Georgia a better place to live for everyone in our community,” Youngblood said. “We’re excited for the ‘Stronger United’ campaign season, and encourage everyone to remember that every dollar counts!”

Youngblood recently announced her upcoming retirement at the end of this year.

“While I’m excited about my next chapter, I’m focused on making this campaign the best yet,” she said. Youngblood has served in this position for 19 years.  At the helm of this year’s campaign, Captain Mike Pheil and Captain Nathan Taylor are co-chairs for “Stronger United.”

“It is my personal belief that in most situations, people are more successful when collaborating with others to reach a shared goal,” Pheil said. “The LaGrange Police Department has, for years, followed this principle in partnering with many non-profit, civic and religious organizations within the community to positively impact the safety and quality of life.”

Capt. Taylor shares this point of view.

“The Troup County Sheriff’s Office enjoys a close working relationship with surrounding agencies, churches, and community, and that is directly tied to the principle that we are all stronger when united,” Taylor said. “The phrase “it takes a village” is an accurate depiction of what it takes for us to come together to build up our community, and provide life-changing resources to non-profits to make this an even better place to live, work, and raise a family.”

This 2022 campaign marks Capt. Pheil’s second season as co-chair. His ongoing participation is inspired by his passion for community service.

In his experience of serving of Troup County, Captain Taylor, shares this fervor for community collaboration.

“The annual campaign impacts so many, and places those much needed resources in the hands of those who need help—those who are right here in our local area,” Taylor said.

To find more information on the United Way of West Georgia visit unitedwaywga.org/campaign.

The “Stronger United” kickoff event will be open to the community. Registration is required and can be made at 706-884-8292, Barbara.Uwga@gmail.com, or by visiting eventbrite.com/e/2022-united-way-kick-off-luncheon-tickets-396117858177. The ticket cost is $25 per person.