United Way invests in Carroll, Henry County agencies

United Way of West Tennessee spends most of the year in fundraising campaigns that support programs run by their partner agencies. But, summer brings a lot of excitement for United Way as their Community Impact process comes to a close and grants are awarded to area nonprofits. Volunteers from each county gather to review grant applications and make funding decisions. “One of the special parts about United Way is that all of the funding decisions are made by local volunteers. We know best what problems are facing our community, and we get to decide where to invest the money raised in our county,” says Carroll County Mayor Joseph Butler, United Way of West Tennessee Board Member.
This year in Carroll & Henry counties United Way is investing $30,873, up more than $7,000 from last year, which will support programs run by 7 local agencies. This kind of investment has far reaching impact. Last year, Carroll & Henry county agencies served more than 4,000 people of all ages in a wide variety of issues within the fields of health, education, and financial stability. “When you make a donation to United Way’s Community Impact Fund, you are able to give to more than just one specific cause. United Way funded programs address issues ranging from child abuse prevention, early childhood development, support for independent living and more,” says Krista Paul, United Way Resource Director for Carroll & Henry counties.
In addition to local investments, Carroll & Henry county funds also help to support regional United Way programs like the 2-1-1 helpline, where people in need can be connected to the appropriate agency when they are not sure where to find help, and Volunteer Income Tax Assistance, which provides free tax preparation services by a certified specialist.  During this year’s campaign season, Carroll & Henry counties raised more than $56,000, which also includes funds that are designated by donors to other counties or out of the area. Carroll & Henry counties came on board with United Way of West Tennessee in 1992 and have raised more than $2.2 million dollars since that time. To see a complete list of agencies supported by United Way of West Tennessee, visit their website: www.uwwt.org.