The United Way of Smith County recently exceeded their 2022 campaign goal by raising $2.109 million from April of 2022 through March of this year. Donations to the annual campaign provide funding for programs of 26 local nonprofits. More than 150 local companies and 4,500 employees participated in the local campaign. The community effort marks consecutive campaigns of at least $2 million for United Way.

“This is an amazing accomplishment that will provide increased funding for United Way’s network of nonprofits,” said Ward Huey, who serves as Campaign Chairman for the organization. “We’re so grateful to our local partner companies and donors who support the well-being of everyone in our community.”

During the campaign, more than 1,200 employees pledged or donated at least $260 to United Way, earning an entry to win a 2022 Jeep Renegade, courtesy of Patterson Tyler Motors. This marks the sixth year Patterson has donated a vehicle to the United Way campaign effort.

“We’re proud of our partnership with United Way and enjoy the opportunity to give back to the community,” said Kirk Wallace, owner of Patterson Tyler Motors. “The programs funded by United Way donations make an impact on countless lives and I am glad we’re able to support that effort.”

During a surprise announcement on April 20th, James Polk, an employee at Trane Technologies, learned that he was the winner of the brand new Jeep.

2022 marked the United Way of Smith County’s 82^nd year to serve as the community chest fund for Tyler/Smith County. During that history, the organization has put more than $70 million back into local nonprofit programs that collectively address some of the biggest issues facing Smith County residents. Dozens of local agencies count on funding from the United Way campaign each year.

“We’re grateful to be a partner agency of United Way and appreciate everyone who donated during their 2022 campaign,” said Whitney Patterson, Executive Director of the Literacy Council of Tyler. “Funding from United Way provides a major boost to our programs and those of numerous other essential nonprofits in Smith County.”

United Way’s 2023 campaign began April 1^st and will conclude March 31^st, 2024. To learn more, visit https://uwsmithcounty.org.