Editor’s note: This story has been corrected. The BB&T Sunset Run Race is not a state championship event this year.

By Shavonne Potts
spotts@salisburypost.com
SALISBURY — Denise Hallett first became involved with the Rowan County United Way as a volunteer about 16 years ago.
She has served on the board of directors, been a campaign volunteer and been instrumental in working with the agency’s Day of Caring.
Now, Hallett will serve as the local United Way’s 2012-13 campaign chairman.
Hallett, of Salisbury, manages external affairs for Vulcan Materials’ southern North Carolina region. Vulcan produces crushed stone for the construction industry.
Hallett said her services have given her the opportunity to see “firsthand the outstanding job that our United Way does spreading these dollars down to these wonderful agencies in the most effective and efficient manner, always with an eye on local needs.”
This past year’s campaign wrapped up on a high note with community and business contributions exceeding the goal by raising more than $1.7 million.
Hallett wants that momentum to carry over into this upcoming campaign.
“That’s my goal, and we will do everything we can to make that happen,” she said.
The agencies provide critical health and human services to the people of Rowan County, Hallett said.
She and her cabinet, which has not been completely chosen, will determine the campaign goal.
She is in the midst of finalizing her cabinet, which is usually a team of about 20.
Another of her goals is to reach out to those businesses or corporations who have not typically been part of the campaign.
The agency also has a year-round theme: Life is Worth Giving…
The phrase, which is in the shape of a gift, will be visible throughout this year’s campaign.
The gift harkens back to the notion that, in giving to others, the giver is also receiving so much more, Hallett said.
Jackie Harris, resource development and marketing director for the Rowan County United Way, praised Hallett.
“Denise is one of the finest people I know,” Harris said. “She is dedicated and truly cares about our community.”
Hallett and her husband, Michael, have two children, Andy and Sarah. She is a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church and a graduate of N.C. State University with a degree in civil engineering. She was previously employed by the Institute for Transportation Research and Education and Koch Materials Co.
This year’s United Way campaign will kick off Sept. 7 with an event in downtown Salisbury, in conjunction with the city’s Friday Night Out. The kickoff will include the BB&T Sunset Run Race and the United Way Soapbox Derby Race.
For more information about the Rowan County United Way and its 16 member agencies, go to www.rowanunitedway.org.
Contact reporter Shavonne Potts at 704-797-4253.