United Way Celebrates Community Impact at Annual Meeting

United Way of the Lower Eastern Shore (UWLES) recently celebrated its 79th Annual Meeting, hosted in partnership with the University of Maryland Eastern Shore. Nearly 200 community members, partners, donors, and volunteers gathered to honor the incredible impact made possible through their collective support.

The event featured a warm welcome from UWLES President/CEO Pam Gregory, followed by remarks from Dr. Robert Mock, Vice President for Strategic Initiatives and Chief of Staff at UMES. The UMES Gospel Choir performed musical selections, setting an inspiring tone for the afternoon.

This year’s meeting highlighted the vital partnerships and dedicated volunteers who drive UWLES’ mission forward. Gregory praised the nonprofit’s many collaborators, funded partners, corporate sponsors, workplace campaign supporters and donors during the 2023-2024 fiscal year. Special thanks were extended to annual sponsors: Impact Champion Perdue Farms, Campaign Sponsor Avery Hall Insurance, Anchor Sponsor PNC Bank, Leadership Sponsor First Shore Federal, and Volunteer Center Sponsor Bank of America.

Outstanding leadership was recognized with several prestigious awards:
• Volunteer of the Year: Bonnie Flinn, ERA Martin Associates
• Affinity Leader of the Year: Cathy Keller, Women United
• Flame of Excellence Award: Pepsi Bottling Ventures
• Coordinator of the Year: Michele Lewis, McCrone
• Jim Barrett Community Leadership Award: Steve Farrow, Civic Leader & UWLES Board Member
• Spirit of the Shore Award: University of Maryland Eastern Shore

Board Chair Sonya Whited shared appreciation for the current and past Board of Directors, the Advisory Council, and all supporters whose contributions allow UWLES to continue helping neighbors in Dorchester, Somerset, Wicomico, and Worcester counties.

Attendees enjoyed program highlights showcasing the impact of United Way’s direct programs, affinity groups, and successful events like the United Way Open, Holiday Ball, and Disc Golf. UWLES’ focus on partnerships and collaborations, including growth of the SmartStart Imagination Library initiative and the expansion of ALICE® awareness efforts, was emphasized throughout the program.

“Our community’s strength lies in the generosity and compassion of our neighbors,” said Gregory. “Each donor, volunteer, and partner make a tangible difference, and together, we are creating a healthier, more stable Lower Shore.”