The United Way of Greater Texarkana kicked off its 95th fundraising campaign Thursday with a luncheon at Southwest Arkansas Electric Cooperative.
"It's a pleasure to be in the room with so many folks that truly care about Texarkana," Mark Bledsoe, president/CEO of the United Way, said to those who attended the event.
At the luncheon, David and Robin Hickerson were announced as the fundraising co-chairpersons and they've set the goal for this year's campaign at $900,000.
"David and I believe we're up to the challenge because of the community and the help we'll receive from people in this room," Robin said.
Their slogan for this year's campaign is "United We Win."
Early indications are that this year's campaign is off to a fast start.
"This year is starting on a positive note with outstanding amount of pledges being noted from our Pacesetters kickoffs," Bledsoe said. "Most every company is outperforming last year's results. Hopefully this is an indication of great things to come this year and we'll be able to take care of more needs within the community."
"Texarkana is definitely working toward being twice as nice. We are all partners in this together and we're focused on building a better future," Bledsoe said. "Education is certainly the key. Long-term is our focus instead of Band-aid programs."
The funds raised from the campaign will be granted to nonprofit agencies in the community with programs aimed at improving the health, education and financial stability.
For more information about the United Way campaign or to schedule a volunteer to speak to a business or group, call 903-794-3105.
The United Way of Greater Texarkana serves a nine-county area: Bowie, Miller, Cass, Red River, Little River, Titus, Marion, Morris and Lafayette counties.
Statistics from some of the programs supported by the United Way:
- One in four children is food insecure.
- There were 692 domestic violence calls made to local law enforcement in 2017.
- The illiteracy rate in Texarkana is 18 percent.
- One in four children's families does not have the resources for basic school supplies.
- There are 1,200 meals a day served to seniors.
- A one-time $25 donations will provide one child with 12 books per year.