United Way Campaign Kick-Off Video

Carrolyn Salazar • July 31, 2020


Wooster, Ohio (July 29, 2020) – United Way of Wayne and Holmes Counties (UWWH) is excited to kick-off their 2020 Campaign. This year’s goal is $1.5 Million. Campaign planning comes with a lot of preparation and UWWH is in full swing, working to raise money that helps thousands of people locally in Holmes and Wayne Counties, in a year like no other.


One of the key components to their campaign is a campaign video. This year the video stars Eight local vocal artists who were selected through submissions from a virtual open call which was held earlier this year. “The responses were amazing!” said Katie Koglman, Executive Director of UWWH. “We have so much talent in Holmes and Wayne Counties. It was uplifting to see the Eight community artists, who were selected, come together and create a moment of inspiration, through our theme song “Love Can Build a Bridge” originally by the Judd’s”, continued Koglman.


The video which will be released August 1, 2020 in conjunction with their campaign kick-off, is a moving message and plea to the community to love one another! The participants include; Matt Cruise, Wooster City Police, Gus Johnson, Hiland High School, his brother Phinehas Johnson, Hiland High School, Noah Michaels, Orrville Middle School, Hannah Schade, Chippewa High School, Sheryl Villegas, Catholic Charities and Trevor Villegas, Wooster High School Aluma. The video was produced by; Joe Bruch and Joe Villegas.


“Community collaborations are always wonderful, but this experience especially with such a diverse group of people of all ages and backgrounds was incredible.” said Koglman. “We know that this year the needs are great and my team is ready to move that thermometer up to the $1.5 Million dollar mark – with your help! We are more motivated than ever before and have a great start of 25%. We are ready to take on 2020 by raising the most funds in recent history for UWWH.”



United Way of Wayne and Holmes is asking community members to consider a gift of any size to help them toward their goal. You can donate by visiting: uwwh.org or by texting: GIVELOCAL2020 to 44321.

The 2020 Campaign video, can be viewed at the following link:

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Just Love: My United Way Wayne & Holmes Journey (Year One) By: Megan Wilson It's hard to believe a year has flown by since I took the plunge and joined the United Way Wayne & Holmes Counties team. This leap into the non-profit world has been more than just a job change; it's been a deeply personal journey of discovery and immense reward. I'm constantly struck by the incredible network of individuals, organizations, and businesses right here in our community, all working tirelessly to uplift the lives of our neighbors. The sheer dedication I see every day is truly inspiring. Before joining the team, I found myself searching for a way to make a real, tangible difference. I explored different paths, but the pull towards a career focused on helping others was undeniable. I yearned for work that resonated with my core values, something that allowed me to contribute to something bigger than myself. That search led me to United Way Wayne & Holmes Counties, an organization whose mission – mobilizing community resources to help people measurably improve their lives and partnering to identify and address pressing needs for long-term, sustainable solutions – spoke directly to my heart. Stepping into this role was, admittedly, a little daunting. My previous fundraising experience peaked with the Parent-Teacher Organization at my kids' elementary school! The scope of the work, coupled with the ambitious goals, made me wonder if I could truly make a difference. But I quickly found myself embraced by an amazing work environment – positive, fun, energetic, and truly uplifting. Our CEO, Katie Koglman, has cultivated a culture of empowerment, and her belief in what we can achieve is contagious. My colleagues have shown me the true meaning of teamwork, proving that together, we're capable of anything. That feeling of empowerment is invaluable. I'm incredibly passionate about the work we do at United Way Wayne & Holmes Counties, especially when it comes to supporting literacy. Programs like Reading Under the Lights and Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, which we both run and fund, are close to my heart. Providing free books to kids is such a powerful way to ignite a love of reading and set them up for future success. But our commitment to the community goes far beyond just books. Every dollar we raise stays right here in Holmes and Wayne Counties, directly impacting our neighbors and strengthening our community from within. We're not just behind-the-scenes fundraisers; we're actively involved in our communities, working alongside our partners to make a real difference in the lives of those around us.  This past year has been a whirlwind of learning, growth, and connection. I've gained a deeper understanding of the challenges facing our community, but even more importantly, I've witnessed the incredible resilience and generosity of its people. Our work wouldn't be possible without the support of our donors and partners. I'm so grateful to be part of this organization, working alongside such passionate and dedicated individuals. People often ask what we do. We're more than just fundraisers; we're connectors, unifiers, and problem-solvers, supporting vital services that strengthen our community. I'm excited to see what the next year brings and the continued positive impact we'll make together in Wayne and Holmes Counties. I absolutely Just, Love everything about my last year!
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