United Way of Abilene holds "Captain's Dinner" a.k.a. Annual Meeting

United Way of Abilene held its Annual Meeting today at the Abilene Civic Center. More than 500 business, community and non-profit organization leaders came together for the seated luncheon. During the business portion of the meeting, Bobby Melson, Treasurer, reviewed the current financial report. Elections of officers and board members were held and reports given on Community  Investments and Partnerships. Phil Christopher was installed as the incoming Board Chairman.

Key workers and volunteers were recognized and numerous local organizations were saluted for their outstanding employee campaigns. First Financial Bank, Abilene Aero, Day Nursery of Abilene, and  United Way of Abilene were recognized for achieving Pinnacle Award status, given for an employee campaign that meets or exceeds 100% of potential. Fourteen different businesses received the Community Excellence Award, given for 90% participation and $150 per capita giving, while 18 more organizations received the Gold Award for 75% participation and giving of $84 per capita. The Silver Award went to 7 companies for 60% employee participation and $72 per capita giving, while 15 Bronze Awards went to those companies that had achieved at least 50% participation and $60 per capita  giving.

In addition, six businesses – Abilene Reporter-News, AEP Texas, Atmos Energy, First Financial Bank, Hendrick Health System, and United Supermarkets – were recognized as members of the Red Feather Society. This honor is given in recognition of a corporate investment in United Way of $10,000 or more. And three businesses - American State Bank, H-E-B Food Store #70, and J. H. Strain & Sons, Inc. – were recognized as members of the Blue Feather Society, an honor given in recognition of a corporate investment in United Way of $5,000-$9,999.

Kim and Steve Nussbaum, Campaign Co-Chairs, announced that as of today Campaign 2010 has raised $2,004,851.

A highlight of the meeting was the drawing for the $5000 travel voucher sponsored by Abilene Reporter-News. An investment of at least $156 entered individuals into the drawing. All of the entrants were placed into a hopper and spun by KTXS’ George Levesque, playing Mr. Roark from Fantasy Island. Risha Sanders, as Ginger from Gilligan’s Island, drew the winning name, Tanya Lamb, an employee of Abilene ISD at Austin Elementary School.

The capstone of the event was the presentation of this year’s Volunteer Service Award. Last year’s award winner, Mike Schweikhard, presented the award to Paul Cannon in recognition of his commitment to service to others, loyalty and integrity.

United Way of Abilene serves 19 counties in West Central Texas. To find out how you can become involved in improving your community, call 325-677-1841 or visit www.unitedwayabilene.org.