Somerset County Board of Education recently presented United Way of the Lower Eastern Shore with a check from the public school system’s 2015 campaign, totaling $38,234.87. Although the school system has supported the local United Way for decades, this year’s campaign was especially significant with a $24,000 increase in donations. Success from the current campaign can be attributed to increased participation from school faculty, staff, local students and their families.
Past United Way Board Member and Somerset County Public Schools Superintendent, Dr. John Gaddis and Supervisor of Public Relations, Leo Lawson, provided exceptional leadership throughout the campaign, encouraging school principals to include faculty and students in the process of raising funds for their local neighbors in need in Somerset County. Aside from staff contributions, county schools held fun events like assemblies, a 5K and a scavenger hunt where students and their families were given the opportunity to contribute to United Way.
Dr. John Gaddis shared, “Words cannot express the pride I feel from the support we received from staff, faculty, students and our community with this campaign. Somerset County embodies the LIVE UNITED spirit that makes our community a better place for all to live.”
About United Way of the Lower Eastern Shore:
Now in its 71st year, United Way of the Lower Eastern Shore continues to be the largest non-governmental source of funding for 62 critical programs in Wicomico, Worcester, Somerset and Dorchester Counties. United Way helps Eastern Shore residents obtain Educational Success by reducing the achievement gap between low and middle income students, Financial Stability by advancing the economic security of families and individuals in our community, and Good Health by improving access to and awareness of local health and wellness services. In the 2014-2015 campaign year, United Way provided nearly $1.3 million to community programs and helped to change the lives of over 77,000 individuals. For more information, visit www.unitedway4us.org.
