United Way Announces 2008 Campaign Vice-Chair

(L to R) Francis Ellert, Ed Ruiz, Jennifer Maddox

4/9/08 - Ed Ruiz, 2008 Campaign Chair for the United Way of Marshall County and Vickie Talcott, President of the United Way Board of Directors, announce the appointment of Francis Ellert as the Vice-Chairman for 2008. In accepting the position, Ellert will become the Campaign Chairman in 2009. In announcing the appointment, Ed Ruiz stated he was pleased that Francis accepted the position and was looking forward to working with him. "I have known Francis for several years and feel confident he will contribute to the success of this year's campaign. Our mutual goal is to continue the half-million dollar campaign for Marshall County and ensure that goal for years to come," said Ruiz.

Francis Ellert, a Cleveland, Ohio native, graduated from Chanel High School in 1986. He earned a B.A. in History from John Carroll University in 1990. He was introduced to Marshall County when he attended summer schools and camps at Culver Academies. Currently Francis is employed in Plymouth as Plant Manager of Coca-Cola Bottling Co. of Kokomo, Indiana, Inc.

Both Ruiz and Ellert are graduates of Leadership Marshall County Class VIII. Ellert currently serves on the Board of Directors of the United Way of Marshall County. In addition, he serves on the boards of directors of the following organizations: Ancilla College Board of Trustess (Secretary), Culver Chamber of Commerce (Past President), Culver Club of Clulver (President), Culver Planning Commission, Marshall-Starke Development Center (Treasurer), Plymouth Rotary Club (Past Treasurer), and the St. Joseph Regional Medical Center Plymouth.

Francis resides in Culver with his wife, Susan, and their four children, Betse (9), Pierce (7), Fritz (5) and Cabot (3).

Ellert was pleased to accept the position. "I believe in the need for philanthropic giving to promote better communities," said Francis. "I have a strong commitment to community service and United Way serves as a reputable vehicle to get contributions into the community efficiently. It is an honor for me to help Ed, his team, and the citizens of Marshall County."

The United Way of Marshall County partners with 15 Member Agencies to provide services for the elderly, youth activities, those in need and health services. United Way also supports programs across the county separate from the Member Agencies.