Submitted

The United Way of Ellis County announced the close of its 2018 campaign with a donation of more than $53,000 from the Bob and Patricia Schmidt Foundation to meet its $400,000 goal.

Sherry Dryden, executive director of the United Way, said she is appreciative of the volunteers, donors and businesses who give every year; however, there has been a continued decline in donations. This donation will help solidify the importance of the United Way and challenge the agency to re-align their vision for the future as they just completed a new strategic plan.

The United Way evolved from the Hays United Fund, which was founded in 1953 by Bob Schmidt.

Gary Shorman, president of the Schmidt Foundation said, “Bob and Pat not only helped start the United Way in Ellis County, but believed fully in the mission of supporting the people and agencies tasked with helping our friends and neighbors in need.”

Through the years, a CARE Council was created in 1992 to review applications and give funding recommendations for potential partner agencies who applied for United Way Funding. The CARE Council is made up of community volunteers who also give recommendations for city and county funding to human service agencies.

United Way funding helps those partner agencies from having to do as much individual fundraising so staff can provide direct services to individuals, youth, and families. One of the many new goals for the United Way is to build on their Endowment Project for a goal of moving administrative expenses completely out of the campaign fund.

Additionally, the United Way applies for grant dollars and sponsorships to fund Community Impact projects ensuring donations for the campaign go directly to the partner agencies. The United Way accepts donations throughout the year at www.liveunited.us, Facebook at “United Way of Ellis County,” or at their offices at 205 E. Seventh St., Suite 111.