TRUMBULL COUNTY United Way honors volunteers, notes accomplishments

The new fund-raising chairman plans to expand on last year's goals.
By SHERRI L. SHAULIS
VINDICATOR TRUMBULL STAFF
HOWLAND -- While officially putting one fund-raising campaign behind them, directors and volunteers for United Way of Trumbull County are ready to move ahead to the 2003 appeal.
United Way recognized volunteers and contributors Thursday at its 80th annual meeting and awards program. Edward C. Taylor, chairman of the United Way boards of directors and trustees, highlighted accomplishments of the 2002 fund-raising campaign, as well as recognized the efforts of volunteers, contributors, service providers and staff.
"We faced a variety of challenges with courage and leadership, and achieved notable success," Taylor said. "We initiated new projects, but most importantly, we changed the lives of thousands of people throughout Trumbull County for the better."
$2.5 million raised
The 2002 campaign generated $2.5 million in donations to benefit the 29 local health and human service agencies throughout the county, including Big Brothers/Big Sisters of Mahoning Valley and Catholic Charities Regional Agency.
Volunteers, under the leadership of campaign chairman Donald E. Moore, declined to set a specific monetary goal this past year, and instead focused on other goals, like expanding the giving base through new corporate gifts, increasing awareness of the agency's value to the community and enrolling more first-time givers.
Moore thanked the more than 200 people who attended the meeting, saying their help was immeasurable.
"You can't run a campaign by yourself," he said.
James L. Crouse, who will serve as chairman of United Way's 2003 fund-raising effort, said he's hoping to keep the momentum from last year going well into this year.
"It's already got off on the right foot for this year," he said.
Geographical approach
Crouse said he plans to expand on last year's efforts to make United Way a greater presence in the community by organizing a geographical approach to seeking donations, expanding training for volunteers at all levels, and implementing more personal contact to increase donations.
To make a donation to United Way, or to become a volunteer, call (330) 369-1000.
The UW also elected these community leaders as officers of its board of directors: Michael P. Craig, principal of Hill, Barth & amp; King LLC, chairman; Diane R. Sauer, president of Diane Sauer's Martin Chevrolet, first vice chairman; Donald E. Moore, vice president of Trumco Insurance Agency, second vice chairman; Evelyn H. McGhee, technical expert with the Social Security Administration, secretary; and David L. Kellerman, executive vice president and chief financial officer of Second National Bank, treasurer.
slshaulis@vindy.com