United Way officially kicks off 2019 Campaign

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United Way of Washington County TN campaign chair Jennifer Owens holds up Wishmore the Wizard, the United Way’s new mascot. PHOTO BY DAVE ONGIE

The United Way of Washington County TN, Inc., kicked off its 2019 Campaign with over 130 community members in attendance at Rotary Park in Johnson City.

The theme of this year’s campaign is “A New Year, a New United Way!” Campaign Chair, Jennifer Owen, picked the theme to send the message that the United Way will be engaging in new ways to spread awareness about the needs of the community and will be the leader to meet those needs through its programs and 21 partner agencies. The monetary goal of the campaign is $1.5 million, but Owen told the crowd that she is confident the community can surpass that goal.

Johnson City Chamber of Commerce president and CEO Bob Cantler was the keynote speaker at the kickoff event. PHOTO BY DAVE ONGIE

Bob Cantler, the President of the Johnson City/Washington County Chamber of Commerce, was the keynote speaker. Cantler spoke about the future of Washington County and how he sees everyone having a role to make an impact to help the community grow and thrive.

Guests at the event were surprised again this year with an impact project to help Adapt To Play, a nonprofit started in Johnson City about two years ago to create inclusive and independent play for all by innovating mobility, increasing sociability, and fostering community collaboration. The United Way’s new mascot, Wishmore the Wizard, was in attendance to help supervise the project.

All told, $4,800 was raised during the event, including a $2,000 donation from The Firehouse Restaurant in celebration of its 40th Anniversary.

Kristan Spear, President and CEO, of United Way of Washington County TN, encouraged guests and the community to adapt with the organization as it expands its reach in Washington County to create a bigger impact than ever before.

To get involved and support our community, contact United Way of Washington County TN, Inc. at 423.220.1229 or www.uwowc.org.

Tom Seaton of The Firehouse reflects on the importance of supporting the work being done by the local United Way.  PHOTO BY DAVE ONGIE
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