The United Way of White County has awarded funding totaling $90,000 to 16 not-for-profit agencies providing vital human services to the local community. Four of the organizations received funding for the first time: Amped Kids, Creative Enterprises, I See U Ministries, and White County Family Connections.
Combined, the 16 organizations served 15,868 residents of White County in 2023.
United Way held an allocation ceremony Thursday at the Roy Ash, Jr. Community Room in Cleveland.
April Rooks, Founder of Amped Kids, said the money they received will help children in White County.
“We are immensely grateful for the support of United Way of White County in supporting our music programs in therapeutics that will help transform the lives of foster, adopted, and at-risk youth. Our goal and mission is to provide an avenue of healing for these children, which happens through our programs as well as the connection in the community and mentorship to create a better future and empower and amplify the future of the children we serve,” said Rooks.
Lauren Williams, President of United Way of White County, said a big push was made last year to get more people to contribute where they work.
“Payroll deductions have grown significantly this year, but we would like to see growth in that area,” Williams said.
Employees interested in contributing to United Way through payroll deductions should check with their employers about how to get started.
United Way’s largest fundraising event is the annual Darrel Chaney Invitational Celebrity Golf Tournament. Chaney attended the allocation meeting to provide an update on the tournament, which will be held on April 15 and 16 in Helen.
Williams said the United Way Board has committed to raising $100,000 in 2024 to provide even more assistance to local organizations.
Agencies that received funding this year are Amped Kids, Catalyst Christian Learning Center, Circle of Hope, Community Helping Hands Clinic, Creative Enterprises, Enota CASA, Family Promise of White County, Habersham Homeless Ministries, I See U Ministries, Rape Response, South Enota Child Advocacy Center, White County Backpack Buddies, White County Caring & Sharing, White County Family Connections, White County Food Pantry, and White County 4H.
