Page 30 - South Mississippi Living - August, 2018

COASTNOTES
UNDERWAY IN JACKSON AND GEORGE COUNTIES
story by Lynn Lofton photos courtesy of United Way of Jackson and George Counties
“Although the 2018 campaign ends
in early November, we welcome support year round from individuals and companies interested in holding workplace campaigns,” says United Way Executive Director Carolyn
Moore. “The Live United theme really describes how United Way works in our communities. When we come together to give of our time, talents and treasure, the collective impact is so much
greater. The sense of community we feel when we work together unites us in something larger than ourselves and allows us to connect with our friends and neighbors.”
The 2018 campaign chairman, Alan Sudduth, said, “I’m excited to serve
as chairman for this year’s United
Way campaign. Our goal is to increase giving by ten percent over last year, and to accomplish this we want everyone to ‘Know Your 19.’ There are nineteen United Way agencies doing some incredible things in Jackson and George counties and our plan is to showcase each of those agencies so donors can see the positive impact their contributions are making.”
Those 19 groups include Volunteers in Medicine Gautier that provides medical care to individuals who do not have health insurance. In 2017, the clinic served a total of 278 new patients and 1,415 returning patients.
Another United Way member, Jackson County CASA, helps abused and neglected children find safe, permanent and nourishing homes. Last year, there were 149 CASA volunteers serving
102 families and 188 children. United Way funds are used in support of the volunteers and administration of the CASA program.
Girl Scouts of Greater Mississippi
and Boy Scouts of America – Pine Burr Area Council use United Way funds to provide opportunities for girls and boys who might otherwise not be able to participate in scouting.
United Way funds help off-set costs for men and women who need addiction recovery services at the Home of Grace. More than 640 men and women were able to battle various types of addiction in 2017 thanks to United Way donors.
These are a few examples of how United Way is helping the community.
30 SOUTH MISSISSIPPI Living • August 2018
FOR MORE REFLECTIONS OF THE GULF COAST >> www.smliving.net
The 59th annual campaign is underway for United
Way of Jackson and George Counties. With a theme of Live United, the campaign is raising funds to support 19 member agencies and programs in the service area.
Girl Scouts prepare for life by learning valuable skills.
A sign at the Home of Grace expresses a guiding principle of the addiction recovery facility.