A Look Back on a Year of Impact

As we welcome 2025, I find myself reflecting on an extraordinary year as the Board Chair for United Way of Northwest Georgia. It has been both an honor and a deeply humbling experience to carry forward the legacy of those who came before me. Serving my community and my home through an organization as impactful as United Way has given me a sense of gratitude for the power of coming together for a greater cause.

This year, we stood shoulder to shoulder to tackle challenges and transform them into opportunities for growth and progress. Together, we made a tangible difference for more than 64,000 of our neighbors in Whitfield and Murray counties, strengthening health, education, and livelihoods. These numbers represent more than metrics—they are stories of resilience, hope, and brighter futures made possible by the commitment of people like you.

One of the highlights of this year was collaborating with Bradley Austin and Karen Townsend, our inspiring 2024 Campaign Co-Chairs. Their passion and dedication were nothing short of extraordinary, and together with your steadfast support, they led a campaign that has truly changed lives. As I look ahead, I am filled with optimism and confidence in David and Sara Pennington, who will lead the charge in 2025 with their remarkable energy and vision.

At its heart, the magic of United Way is in you. Every volunteer, donor, and advocate is a vital part of this mission. Whether it's installing Born Learning Trails to set children on the path to success, collecting home goods to support families in crisis, or rallying together for events like the CEO Trike Race, each action contributes to a powerful ripple effect of change.

As I step down, I do so with immense gratitude and trust in the incredible leadership of Jill Schubert, our incoming Board Chair. Jill’s creativity, drive, and commitment will propel United Way of Northwest Georgia to new heights. I am confident that together, we will continue to build a community where every individual has the tools and opportunities to thrive.

Now, more than ever, I invite you to be part of this journey. Whether you volunteer a few hours of your time, make a financial contribution, advocate for our mission, or simply spread the word, every action—big or small—matters. Together, we can unite as a community to create a brighter, stronger, and more compassionate future for Whitfield and Murray counties.

This is our moment to come together and build a community we can all be proud of—a place where opportunity, resilience, and hope are abundant for all. Will you join us in shaping this future?

Thank you for being an essential part of this mission. Let’s make 2025 a year of unforgettable progress and shared pride.

United is the Way!

By Julian Dossche, 2024 Board Chair, United Way of Northwest Georgia

Julian Dossche is the immediate past Board Chairman of United Way of Northwest Georgia.

The mission of United Way is Improving Lives. Inspiring Donors. Uniting Community.