Portage County organization marks 75th anniversary

For the City Times

United Way of Portage County kicked off its 2020 campaign on Sept. 17, with a virtual presentation by Dr. Gloria Wilder, M.D. MPH, pediatrician, entrepreneur, and expert on poverty and social justice.

Drive Chair Kathy Davies unveiled the 2020 campaign video, narrated by past 2000 Drive Chair Chuck Nason.

“This year’s campaign signifies United Way being in the Portage County community for 75 years. United Way of Portage County – then known as the Stevens Point War Chest, began in 1945, shortly after the nation emerged from WWII. The mission in 1945 was to rally support for those in need, something that has remained constant,” a campaign release said.

“Results from early pacesetter campaigns include Wysocki Family of Companies, $21,861; and Delta Dental of Wisconsin which now includes Northwinds Technology Solutions, $381,000. With these campaigns, and money from other donations, United Way of Portage County is currently at over 13 percent of the overall community goal of $3.05 million.”

United Way of Portage County Executive Director Sue Wilcox said these figures are even more important when you factor in all the obstacles this year has given to residents of Portage County.

“Individuals and families who never thought they would find themselves in difficult positions, are for the first time ever reaching out to request assistance,” she said. “We are seeing the best of our community, uniting during a time when it matters the most.”

This year’s co-chairs include: Jim Anderson, Lorraine Avery, Mary Berard, Jason and Jenny Blenker, Den Brown, Marg Coker-Nelson, London Cooper, Kathy Davies, Mike Hofmeister, Alex Okray, Tina Peters, as past drive chairs.

The United Way of Portage County 2020 Campaign will take place throughout Portage County at approximately 160 worksites, via direct mail, and through contributions made online at www.unitedwaypoco.org.

For more information, call 715-341-6740, email [email protected], or visit www.unitedwaypoco.org.

View the 2020 campaign video at www.youtube.com/watch?v=KXAqbfpN3l8&t.