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3M, US Bank Home Mortgage, KCP&L, Empire District Gas top United Way contributors
Nevada Daily Mail
Volunteers, businesses and contributors were honored Wednesday at the annual United Way of Vernon County Appreciation and Awards Luncheon at the Nevada Country Club.
The event serves as a wrap-up to the fundraising campaign, which brings local dollars to local agencies.
Adam Dean, United Way vice president board and co-chair of the fund drive, told those in attendance that as of Wednesday morning, United Way had raised $116,450 of its $112,000 goal.
"We're blessed to have so many willing to give back. This speaks to our community."
Recognized were luncheon sponsors DWSA CPAs, Empire District Gas, Great Southern Bank, First National Bank, Heritage State Bank, KNEM-KNMO, and Larry Bledsoe.
Media sponsors KNEM-KNMO and the Nevada Daily Mail were recognized for their support.
Oktoberfest support awards went to PG Entertainment, Great Southern Bank, US Bank, the City of Nevada, Vernon County Adult Recovery Court, Nevada High School, Shawn's Trash Service, Walmart, Jake's Fireworks, Missouri Eagle LLC, and Corey Johnson.
Oktoberfest is a key United Way fundraiser, which offers a variety of events, including a chili cook-off, as an introduction to the United Way agencies.
This year's committee members were recognized, as well cook-off chairman Ross Lawrence.
Challenge Program Coordinator's certificates were handed out.
Special recognition went to 3M Company for once again being the largest overall contributor.
KCP&L received the 100 percent participation award.
Most improved went to US Bank Home Mortgage.
Empire District Gas was presented a plaque for having the highest per capita giving as a business with 3-24 employees, an award the district won last year as well.
US Bank Home Mortgage was honored for doing the same in the category of businesses with 100 plus employees, also a repeat winner.
"There is so much work involved in making this happen," said United Way Executive Director Peggy Tedlock. "Our thanks goes to all who allow us to help so many."
Member agencies receiving funds include:
* American Red Cross -- helps those who have been the victims of natural disasters and fires as well as supporting local firefighters.
* Birthright of Nevada -- deals with unplanned pregnancies. Counseling, maternity and baby needs are offered.
* Children's Center -- works for child advocacy with members of law enforcement and the courts in abuse cases.
* Children's Mercy Hospital -- provides health and well-being services to children regardless of the ability to pay.
* Community Outreach -- provides food but can also help those needing emergency help with rent and utilities on a limited basis.
* Council on Families in Crisis, Moss House -- provides shelter for sexual and domestic violence victims.
* DARE (Drug Abuse Resistance Education) -- designed to teach students good decision-making skills and to choose to lead lives free from violence, substance abuse, and other dangerous behaviors.
* Ozarks Trail Council Boy Scouts of America and Girl Scouts of the Missouri Heartland -- offers education youth programs to build character and citizenship and recognize strengths and talents.
* Nevada Youth Recreational Baseball -- serves youth through athletics, teaching discipline and teamwork.
* Special Olympics Missouri, SW Area -- offers a physical outlet and a way to participate in competition as an individual and as a team for those with special needs.
* Neighbors Center -- offers daytime adult day care for ages 18 and over, providing temporary relief for the caregiver of those who are homebound, elderly or disabled.
* University of Missouri Extension of Vernon County -- provides cooperative extension work such as 4-H, in agriculture and home economics.
* Vernon County Adult Recovery Court -- provides an alternative to prison.
* Vernon County Child Advocacy Council -- educates and prevents child abuse and neglect, with parent education classes.
* Vernon County Mental Health Court --an "intense" alternative sentencing program through the court that provides an option for those deemed as being able to benefit. The program admits those diagnosed with a mental health issue who have been involved in criminal activity.
* Vernon County Ministerial Alliance Emergency Relief Fund -- helps transients with financial aid.
* Vernon County People for Pets -- takes in unwanted animals and works to find them homes.
* Vernon County Senior Center -- helps those over the age of 60 with everything from food to transportation to in-home services.