Rowan County United Way is asking everyone to “Join Us As A Piece of the Puzzle,” as the best strategy for a jigsaw puzzle is a steady journey from piece to piece. 

Kaisha Brown, communications coordinator for the city of Salisbury, is the 2024-2025 campaign chair of fundraising efforts. Brown will lead the endeavor with her campaign cabinet alongside to manage multiple business and community campaigns to reach this year’s goal. 

“Our 2024 campaign cabinet members are Jonathan Williams, Carol Ann Houpe, Donna Honeycutt, David Post, Dystanie Richard, Peter Franzese, Dale Peeler, Nick Means, Elia Gegorek, Gary Blabon, Elizabeth Cook and Kevin Auten. The cabinet includes community members who are deeply committed to their professions and improving our entire community’s well-being,” Brown said. “It is an honor to lead this year’s United Way campaign alongside them. We have exciting things planned to showcase the impact of the 21 funded programs and the importance of giving. I’m excited for everyone to learn more about Rowan County United Way and join us in being a piece of the solution to ensure that every person in our county receives the care they need.”

Dale Peeler of Central Carolina Insurance will be leading the Commercial 1 division.

“Every family has been touched by either substance use, mental health issues, healthy lifestyle behaviors and just basic needs of life,” Peeler said. “The Rowan County United Way is committed to supporting these groups and making our communities stronger. That’s why I am proud to be a part of the campaign cabinet again this year.”

United Way has supported the growing needs of Rowan County for over 65 years, addressing specific needs of the citizens using the Community Impact Model, matching donations with community necessities. In 2023, it served 77,304 individuals through 21 funded programs. The organization also funds the local NC 211, which made 1,807 referrals to local health and human service agencies, connecting these individuals to food, financial assistance, shelter and other resources. In order for these services to continue assisting the community, the success of the campaign is crucial.

The kickoff event for this year’s campaign will be held at The F&M Trolley Barn on Friday, Sept. 13, at noon. As part of the event, Brick Ed will be leading interactive team building activities.

Expressing excitement for the event, Philanthropy Director Audrey Eudy said, “We are extremely grateful to have The Trolley Barn and Brick Ed kickstart our campaign in such a fun way. We couldn’t be more thrilled with Kaisha leading the way. We look forward to all the pieces coming into place.”

For more information on the 2024-2025 Campaign, go to www.rowanunitedway.org or call 704-633-1802. Follow Rowan County United Way on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn for updates.