United Way Finishes COVID-Hampered 2020 Campaign at 80% of Goal

United Way of Effingham County had a successful 2020 campaign and raised $273,216. Despite the global pandemic and mandated restrictions that were in place throughout the year, 85% of the $320,000 goal was met. United Way Board of Directors said they are very pleased with the results and would like to thank everyone for their efforts.

“The 2020 campaign was an extremely difficult year. There were many challenges as all fundraiser events had to be cancelled due to Covid-19 and mandated restrictions to include Barstool Golf, Jennings Labor Day Celebration and the Witches Ball. We were able to conduct a virtual fundraiser, the Thanks & Giving Raffle and online auction. We are grateful for the community and would like to thank everyone who donated during these difficult times.” said Linda Hemmen, Chief Professional Officer for United Way of Effingham County.

Due to the fact that there will be no Annual Meeting this year due to restrictions that are still in place, United Way Board of Directors would like to thank the Gold, Silver and Bronze business for their efforts to conduct a campaign. United Way will issue certificates to the following businesses based on their campaign level:

Gold Level Businesses, raising $10,000 or more: Agracel, Ameren, Dieterich Bank, Koerner Distributor, Midland States Bank, Siemer Milling Company and Stevens Industries

Silver Level Businesses, raising $5,000 - $9,999: Niemerg’s Steakhouse

Bronze Level Businesses, raising $2,500 - $4,999: Fifth Third Bank, Washington Savings Bank and West & Company.

Other local businesses that conducted an employee campaign include Crossroads Bank, Effingham County employees, First Financial Bank of Newton, First Mid Bank & Trust, First National Bank of Waterloo, John Boos & Company, and Senior Services of Effingham County.

20 local partner agencies will receive funding from the 2020 United Way of Effingham County campaign, including Altamont After School Program, Andrew Gobczynski Big Heart Foundation, Big Brothers Big Sisters (Mid Illinois), Boy Scouts - Greater St Louis Area Council, Catholic Charities, CEFS Literacy Program, Child Advocacy Center of E. Central Illinois, Effingham Child Development Center, Effingham County FISH Human Services, Effingham County Search & Rescue, Enduring Freedom Ministries, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Girl Scouts of Southern Illinois, Meals on Wheels of CEFS, One Hope United, SAFE (Sexual Assault and Family Emergencies), Senior Services of Effingham County, STAR (Strategic Training and Restoration), SWAN (Stopping Woman Abuse Now) and the Unit 40 Mentoring Program.

The campaign officially closed on January 31.