United Way of Grayson County starts new Campaign on Saturday

Kathy Williams

Herald Democrat 

"Come join the 'Roundup' team and be a part of our plan for the success of our community, citizens and the partner agency programs of Grayson County," states a press release from United Way of Grayson County. "Supporting your local United Way helps our neighbors, friends and families by making our community a stronger, healthier and safer place to work and live."

Success of the community campaign is vital not only to United Way's reaching its goals, but to the partner agencies as well. This year, United Way of Grayson County received requests more than double the funding it had available for lending.

"United Way kickoffs have traditionally been business and industry groups gathering for a breakfast event," David Cortinas, a United Way of Grayson County executive, said. "The dollars we raise serve children, families, the elderly and others throughout the county -- we're inviting everyone to participate and understand why we work so hard to raise these funds."

Four co-chairpersons have volunteered to reach out to Grayson County communities: Grayson County Sheriff Keith Gary, Jason Taylor of 93.1 KMKT radio, Tina Martin of American Bank and Sam Keeler of Tyson Foods.

Gary is volunteering his time, he said, because he understands the importance of a successful campaign. He brings a wealth of experience from his service with the U.S. Marshal Service and as sheriff of Grayson County. He has developed an appreciation for the work United Way's partner agencies perform in the community from service on boards of directors for the Children's Advocacy Center and Red Cross. This special blend of public sector, non-profit and faith experiences led Gary to say, "I believe in United Way. It supports various organizations which provide needed services to the people of Grayson County. I find that a single contribution by itself might not be consequential, but when citizens together pool their contributions, there is a significant impact. Regardless of the size of the contribution, it will be meaningful."

Martin contributes her experience as a human resources representative for
American Bank, where she can see community and family needs up close and personal. She explained that "living United is about helping your neighbors on the good days, the bad days and all the ones in between."

Sam Keeler, as training coordinator with Tyson Foods, also sees the human condition up close and has served on the board of partner agency North Texas Youth Connection. He also has worked with Relay for Life, which raises money for cancer research. Keeler said he agrees that this year's campaign kickoff is a great opportunity for the community to meet face-to-face with the United Way team and the agencies they support.

"Grayson County is a community of hard working people with big hearts, and this year we need their help more than ever. By donating to the United Way, we can help the agencies of Grayson County make a bigger impact on the lives of those who truly need our help," he said.

Taylor, when he's not broadcasting on Katy Country, plays with his three young daughters. Taylor enjoys working with youth through his church.

"Why volunteer?" Taylor asked out loud. "To impact, in a positive way, the lives of families and neighbors who are in need." In turn, he said he hopes to inspire them to do the same.

For more information contact United Way of Grayson County (903) 893-1920, or at www.unitedwaygrayson.org.