United Way kicks off annual campaign

Nonprofit hopes to raise $900,000

Jennifer and Craig Harland, co-chairmen of the United Way of Greater Texarkana 2018 Campaign, inspire the crowd Thursday during the kick-off event of the annual fundraiser. Ninety-nine cents of every dollar raised through the campaign stay in the greater Texarkana area.
Jennifer and Craig Harland, co-chairmen of the United Way of Greater Texarkana 2018 Campaign, inspire the crowd Thursday during the kick-off event of the annual fundraiser. Ninety-nine cents of every dollar raised through the campaign stay in the greater Texarkana area.

The United Way of Greater Texarkana kicked off its fundraising campaign by calling on the community to realize the power of one and the difference an individual can have on others.

"Some people may question the power of one but all it take is one person to get the ball rolling," said Craig Harland, who's co-chairing the campaign with his wife, Jennifer Harland. "Whatever you do here can be multiplied extensively."

The campaign kick-off was held at Southwestern Electric Power Co., where the Harlands work as managers of distribution and external affairs. Lunch was served to those in attendance.

United Way officials are hoping to bring in $900,000 or more with the campaign.

"We want this to be the best campaign yet," Jennifer said. "We want to increase contributions so we can roll that back into the community for all the work the nonprofits are doing. There's a lot of need."

Craig added to that.

"We realize it only takes one person to step up. Their contribution can be multiplied by other people. In times of crisis, people just need a hand up," he said.

United Way officials are working hard to make this year's campaign a success.

"We just keep trying to think outside the box and pull in funds from different places," said Mark Bledsoe, United Way president/CEO. "We're also trying to hit on different sources because there are a limited amount of dollars in the community."

"When disasters hit around the region, we see how everyone pulls together. We've got to continue to take care of things locally," Bledsoe said.

Approximately 99 percent of the money raised stays local.

"Where it goes is decided by local volunteers," Bledsoe said. "Right now, the money is going to over 30 programs at 20 agencies."

Pastor Sam Martinez spoke at the kick-off.

"There is power in giving. When you give there is something inside of you. It's a nonselfish act. It comes from the heart," Martinez said. "I encourage you this year as you're getting ready to kick off the United Way (campaign), get a vision like never before."

For more information about the campaign or having a volunteer speak to a business or group, call the United Way office at 903-794-3105.

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