Business and community leaders and partner agencies are optimistic that the Heart of Missouri United Way will reach its community campaign goal of just over $3-million, $3,075,000 to be exact.
The Heart of Missouri United Way serves residents in Boone, Cooper and Howard counties in our listening area. The community campaign was launched last week at a Columbia park, and Heart of Missouri United Way president Andrew Grabau tells 939 the Eagle that he’s hopeful:
“But we know that our community when we ask them to step up, they do. And we also know that the need is so significant that even with that goal we will still have needs. But we know that we can make some significant inroads in serving one in five in our community,” Mr. Grabau says.
Mr. Grabau notes one in five community members are served by United Way funded programs. Board chair Mitzi Clayton says the community campaign’s success depends on your generosity in mid-Missouri. She says the community campaign helps remove barriers to quality education, financial stability and affordable access to health and basic needs.
Two familiar names in Columbia are the co-chairs for the 2024 Heart of Missouri United Way’s community campaign. Rhett and Dr. Lauren Brengarth thank their employers, Commerce Bank and Mizzou, and numerous other employers for being campaign partners. Mr. Grabau is asking you to consider making a donation. He knows budgets are tight for many of you:
“While it might be a challenge for many of us, think of those who are even struggling more. And how a little bit of support conveys a message of hope,” says Grabau.
There are 29 partner agencies with the Heart of Missouri United Way. Love Columbia executive director Jane Williams says giving generously through the community campaign ensures mid-Missouri families receive support that moves them to self-sufficiency.