Tioga United Way kicks off annual 2016-17 campaign

The Tioga United Way held its 2016-2017 annual campaign kick-off on Sept. 15 at the Pheasant Hill Country Club in Owego, N.Y.

Attending the event were representatives from 30 partner agencies and members of the Tioga United Way Board of Directors. At the kick-off meeting, it was announced that the 2016-2017 campaign goal is $200,000.

First-hand accounts of Tioga United Way’s positive impact in the community were shared by two of the partner agencies, the Community Care Network of Nichols (CCNN) and Tioga Outreach / Catholic Charities.

Laurie Ellis of Tioga Outreach/Catholic Charities, and a chairperson, shared, “In a flash, trouble can come, temporarily or permanently, causing families to feel hopeless.”

Ellis explained that the United Way steps in to support the community in a time of need, and is a resource that, in her words, “Helps weave the fabric of the community tighter.”

William Prentice, a volunteer with CCNN, was a guest speaker at the event, and shared personal examples of how he helps community residents, particularly giving rides to individuals who cannot drive, cannot afford a taxi, or have no other family members to help.

Dorothy Richter of CCNN, and also a chairperson, acknowledged Prentice’s volunteerism. Since 2011, Prentice has helped several clients by transporting them primarily to appointments, and has contributed hundreds of hours of his personal time. Richter reiterated that CCNN works well because of volunteers like Prentice who go the extra mile for those in need.

Individuals who give to the Tioga United Way support 30 agencies, such as those who provide programs for the elderly, the youth, the disabled, the isolated, the illiterate and the hungry. One partner agency attending the kick-off meeting was the Family Reading Partnership, who recently joined the United Way family this year.

Individuals can contribute to the United Way through a workplace campaign via payroll deduction, or if that is not an option, can send donations directly to the Tioga United Way at 24 State Rte. 96, Owego, N.Y. Donations via credit cards are gladly accepted by calling (607) 687-4028.

For more information about the Tioga United Way or to get involved, call (607) 687-4028, email them at tiogaunitedway@stny.rr.com or visit their website, www.tiogaunitedway.com.