Prairieland United Way is encouraging the community to “Chip In” to this year’s campaign.
United Way supporters packed the Bob Freesen YMCA this morning for the annual kick off. Leading the charge this year is the Chipman family, consisting of Bob, Janet, Tim and Stephanie.
Stephanie says co-chairing the 2016 campaign is a thrilling opportunity to give back to the four-county-area.
“I think the need in the Jacksonville community is obvious. Having our first child has taught us how much help individuals need to succeed in the world. The United Way gives others an opportunity to succeed. It is important to us to help other people see that need,” says Stephanie Chipman.
Tim is excited to have three generations from the same family in charge of United Way’s campaign.
“I think we can really appeal to the generations of families that live in and around Jacksonville. This is on the ground and right now. The need is great and we are honored to be at the front line of that this year,” says Tim Chipman.
Prairieland United Way took time to recognize some of the top donors from last year’s campaign. Diversified Crop Insurance led the way with $44,508 in donations, followed by Passavant Area Hospital with $42,511, Jacksonville Savings Bank with $31,256, Bound to Stay Bound with $29,348 and Nestle pitched in $27,399.
Rounding out the top ten were DOT Foods, The Farmer’s State Bank and & Trust Company, Ameren Illinois, Blue Cross Blue Shield and Benton & Associates.
United Way representatives were proud to announce two new fundraisers: a Zombie 5K on October 22nd and a 3-on-3 basketball tournament at Fitness World Health Club on January 14th. The annual Jean’s Day will be held on September 22nd.
For tomorrow only, the Jacksonville Quk-N-EZ on Comfort Drive will make a five cent donation for every gallon of gas sold from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m.