United Way of Marion County celebrates first year anniversary
Almost $15,000 contributed
Approximately 20 people gathered Jan. 20 at the Scout House in Hillsboro for the first meeting of United Way of Marion County. They enjoyed a meal served by Panhandlers Catering of Hillsboro.
Chairman Jessie Nikkel welcomed members of United Way of Harvey County, including executive director Kent Dove and advisory board members Loren Friesen and Robert Carlton. The Marion County chapter is an affiliate of Harvey County UW.
Carlton presented Nikkel with a complimentary plaque for her year of service.
"There are those folks who have a vision, see a need, and make a choice to do something about it," he said, acknowledging the efforts of the advisory board of Marion County United Way. "It was an unbelievable effort in Marion County. They did an awesome job."
"It has been a learning year," Nikkel said. "Without the help of Harvey County United Way, we couldn't have been successful."
Carl Long of Hillsboro is vice chairman and Cynthia Flaming of Hillsboro is secretary/treasurer. Other board members are Gordon Mohn and Vince Nikkel of Hillsboro, Kelly Krch of Lincolnville, Rose Vinduska and Jan Helmer of Marion, and Mary Johnson of Peabody.
Each board member received a certificate from the chairman. The same people will serve on the advisory board in 2004.
The 2003 United Way campaign in Marion County netted $14,908. Carl Long and Vince Nikkel were recognized for their efforts as campaign co-chairmen.
Chairman Nickel praised "pacesetter" companies which contributed seed money or services even before the organization got off the ground. They were: Central National Bank, Emprise Bank, Hillsboro State Bank, Peabody State Bank, McDonald's, Ag Power/Carquest, and Ag Service.
Funds were distributed to Marion County 4-H Development Fund, Main Street Ministries in Hillsboro, United Cerebral Palsy, Big Brothers/Big Sisters of Marion County, Communities in Schools of Marion County, Health Ministries Clinic in Newton, Girl Scout Council of the Flint Hills, Quivira Council of Boy Scouts of America, American Red Cross, and Joyful Noise Community Child Care in Goessel.
Nikkel said making people aware of the organization was the biggest challenge in 2003.
"We hope for a successful 2004," she said. "We would like to have full representation, with contributions from all areas of the county."
