United Way Launches 2025 Campaign with $1.1 Million Goal

The United Way of Rowan County unveiled its ambitious fundraising goal of $1,111,111.11 for the 2025 campaign during its kickoff event held on September 12, 2023, at the F&M Trolley Barn in Salisbury. The campaign’s new chair, Eric Slipp, announced the theme, “Join the Symphony of Change,” emphasizing the collective effort needed to address local community issues.

Slipp, a retired chemical engineer and active community volunteer, was appointed by last year’s chair, Kaisha Brown. He expressed enthusiasm about leading the campaign, stating, “I’m never too far away from a campaign.” Slipp highlighted the extensive planning that had already taken place before the kickoff, including assembling a team of dedicated volunteers, referred to as the campaign cabinet.

Meet the Campaign Cabinet

During the event, Slipp introduced the campaign cabinet, which includes individuals serving in various sectors. Key positions were filled by:

– Joe Crapster, Presidents
– Jonathan Williams, Chairmans
– Ray Spear, Industrial 1
– Audrey Eudy, Industrial 2
– Dale Peeler, Commercial 1
– Nick Means, Commercial 2
– Josi Bailey, Commercial 3
– Carol Ann Houpe, Education
– Renard Cuthbertson, Nonprofits
– Rodney Harrison, Public Employees
– Dillon Brewer, Public Employees
– David Post, Leadership Giving
– Kevin Auten, Special Gifts
– Brad Walser, Community Business
– Chanaka Yatawara, Professionals

As the cabinet members lined up wearing campaign T-shirts, they revealed the fundraising goal to the audience. Slipp noted the $1.1 million target, emphasizing that “every penny counts,” which even included the symbolic eleven cents in the overall goal.

A Call for Community Action

The campaign theme, “Join the Symphony of Change,” resonated with Slipp’s personal background in music, as he is a singer and former president of the local symphony board. He likened the community’s efforts to a symphony orchestra, where diverse talents combine to create harmony. “Here in Rowan County, let’s combine all of our talents and treasures to make this a more beautiful community for all of our citizens,” he urged.

While celebrating the strengths of the community, Slipp acknowledged ongoing challenges, including substance abuse, mental health issues, and homelessness. He praised the frontline service providers, stating, “Your hours are long, your work is so often unappreciated. You humble me with your dedication.”

The United Way partners with various organizations to address these pressing concerns, including Scouting of America, Capstone Recovery Center, and Rowan Helping Ministries. Several representatives from these partner organizations shared their struggles and needs during the event, reinforcing the urgent need for community support.

In addition to the fundraising announcement, the event featured a car giveaway, supported by local dealerships including Ben Mynatt and Team Chevrolet. Jim Behmer, Board President of United Way, expressed gratitude to sponsors, volunteers, and attendees for their contributions and support.

Closing the event, Lee, a member of the United Way board, paid tribute to the late Melissa Robbins, a dedicated staff member who had a profound impact on the community. Lee shared, “I don’t know if I’ve ever met someone who believed in United Way and giving to their community as much as she did.”

With a tone reflecting both seriousness and the spirit of community, Slipp concluded, “Yes, you can and do make a difference.” The United Way campaign aims not only to raise funds but also to inspire collective action in addressing the needs of Rowan County residents.