United Way falls short of goal
By Jim Cox Co-Publisher

For the first time in many years, perhaps ever, the Clarke County United Way fell short of its goal of contributions and pledges to aid a number of social service agencies that assist area residents.

The local United Way annual luncheon meeting was held at the Grove Hill United Methodist Church Tuesday, March 18 and Julia Ann Deas, the organization's chairman, announced the figures for 2007. A couple of donations were added to the totals prior to the luncheon to bring the total to $143,660. The goal was $155,000, or about an eight percent shortfall.

"We wished we had a better report," Deas said, noting that many workplaces actually increased their contributions to United Way last year.

She said United Way is appreciative of those who contributed and of volunteers who lobbied for contributions and pledges. "It has been a tough year," she admitted, "but we are so appreciative of what we have."

Thomasville Mayor Sheldon Day was campaign chairman for 2007 but was unable to attend the luncheon.

Deas referenced the many corporate and individual donors listing in a program but singled out Barbara Whittington of Dunn's Exxon in Grove Hill and Joe Bedwell of Merchants Bank for recognition.

Dunn's Exxon was awarded a Community Service Award for "outstanding support within the community."

Deas explained that Dunn's had increased their giving to United Way but that the business does so much more, too, giving generously for a variety of causes and needs.

Barbara Whittington of the family-owned business said, "When my daddy [Ben Dunn] first shared the idea of a store, he told us [his children] 'We must give back to those who give to us' and that is what we have tried to do…Thank you for making us successful. It is because of you we do what we do for the community."

Merchants Bank was recognized as United Way's Business of the Year. Deas thanked Bedwell and the board of directors and employees of the bank for "walking an extra mile this year."

Officers and executive committee members for 2008 were elected. Deas will continue as chairman. County Commissioner Rhondel Rhone is vice chairman; Dottie Fore, secretary; Rick Harvey, treasurer; Rev. Jim DuFriend, board of trustees representative; and Marty Parker, campaign chairman.

Angelo Miller, executive director of United Way of Southwest Alabama (Clarke, Mobile and Washington counties) told the group that overall, the 2007 campaign raised $5.7 million.

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