United Way Celebrates
By Rusty Nixon, Pilot News Correspondent

2/8/08 - It was with obvious emotion, and a little relief, that United Way Drive Chairman Brad Serf announced that this year's drive had met its goal of $500,000.

"We saw some hesitation because of tough economic times but I think it says a lot for the people of this county that they supported us," he said. "The persistence of each of our chairmen was very important in reaching our goal."

That goal continued to move upward for another year, a fact that wasn't lost on Serf either.

"You talk to a lot of the veterans of this campaign and they remember a time not that long ago when half of this amount would have been amazing," he said. "I'm really pleased with the growth we've had. Hopefully with more economic development like Zentis and Medallion coming into the county we'll be able to grow even further."

Growth is something that United Way sees as essential since the need in the county continues to grow as well.

"We've had new agencies that provide services that are unique and needed in the county express an interest in applying for our assistance," said Serf. "Of course we'll have to look at each of those, but we have to keep working hard so that the funding is there for those services."

Serf will hand off the chairmanship of next year's drive to Ed Ruiz, but will take his own memory of why he gives his time to United Way.

"There are so many moments that show you why you do it," he said. "I think having a chance to work with Marshall County Older Adult Services, really makes it real to me. You may go your whole life without ever needing the help of one of the agencies we support, but that doesn't mean you never will need a hand. As you get older you may just like to have a place to go to socialize with other people of your age and interests. Older Adult Services really gives that to people."