United Way Launches $4.155 Million Campaign to Transform Lives

Karen Townsend and Bradley Austin, the 2024 Campaign Co-Chairs for United Way of Northwest Georgia, unveiled the 2024-2025 Campaign Goal of $4.155 million during Tuesday night's Campaign Kickoff Party and CEO Trike Race at Burr Park; they were joined in support by the Campaign Cabinet and Board of Directors. The evening was filled with excitement as companies led by their CEOs competed in the 12th annual CEO Trike Race, with Dorsett Industries emerging victorious. Also, Engineered Floors won Best Pit Crew, and Cargill won Best Uniform! Congratulations to all the winners!

United Way of Northwest Georgia continues to profoundly impact the community. We connect people to possibilities in Whitfield and Murray counties and positively impact over 64,000 individuals annually. The mission remains clear: Improving Lives. Inspiring Donors. Uniting Community.

"It takes all of us working together to win for our community. We all want to ensure that needs continue to be met in our community. I'm excited to see where the rest of this year takes us," remarked Karen, expressing her enthusiasm for the campaign.

"Each year, United Way of Northwest Georgia is led by dynamic leaders. This year is no exception. Karen and Bradley have stepped up to lead the charge, assembling a team of committed and determined individuals who have reached out to their friends and colleagues for support. I have no doubt we will reach our goal of $4.155 million. United Way's success is an important part of our community's overall success and the health and well-being of our families," shared Amanda Burt, United Way President.

"We are a strong, vibrant, and diverse community. We step up to help our neighbors in times of need – by lending a hand, giving our financial resources to someone with a need greater than our own, and doing whatever it takes to ensure our community thrives. United Way is important to me and our community, and I am proud to be a part of the team," noted Julian Dossche, United Way Board Chairman.

Over 50 United Way volunteers work tirelessly each year to analyze the community's needs, ensuring that every gift meets the most critical needs efficiently and effectively

"We all benefit when you give to the United Way of Northwest Georgia. Your dollars stay local and go to where they make the biggest impact. The funds will be used for local United Way programs that provide mentors for kids, nourish our elderly by delivering meals to their homes, and give shelter to families struggling to meet their basic needs. Right now, we all can make Whitfield and Murray counties a better place," stated Bradley.

By coming together, we can achieve something extraordinary. Let's unite, help, and inspire one another like never before. We are a powerful and inspiring community. Join us in making a difference and changing lives! Visit www.ourunitedway.org to learn more.

United Way Campaign Cabinet 2024 - Bradley Austin and Karen Townsend Campaign Co-Chairs, Shaw Industries and Community Volunteer

  • Zack Adamson, Engineered Floors
  • Blake Adcock, Adcock Financial Group
  • Amy Anderson, Human Resources Consulting
  • Elizabeth Caperton, Barrett Properties
  • James Coker, Signature Flooring
  • Scot Davis, Shaw Industries
  • Shane Day, Textile Rubber and Chemical – Tiarco
  • Julian Dossche, International Flooring Company
  • David Gregg, Bank OZK
  • Bob Hardaway, Shaw Industries
  • Sandee Hooper, Community Volunteer
  • Lance Lewis, Direct Packaging
  • Chuck McClurg, Shaw Industries
  • Zac Long, Community Volunteer
  • John Patterson, Material Handling Inc.
  • Gage Peeples, United Surface Solutions
  • David Pennington, Advanced Insurance Strategies
  • Patti Renz, Coldwell Banker Kinard Realty
  • Pete Sigmon, Shaw Industries Retiree
  • Greg Wrenn, International Flooring Company
  • Kevin Wright, Marketing Alliance Group
  • Joe Young, Engineered Floors
  • Will Young, Engineered Floors

2024 CEO TRIKE RACE TEAMS

  • BDL Advisors
  • Cargill
  • Carpets of Dalton
  • Dalton Public Schools
  • Dalton Utilities
  • Dorsett Industries
  • Engineered Floors
  • International Flooring Company
  • Mannington Phenix
  • Marketing Alliance Group
  • Material Handling Inc.
  • Mohawk Industries
  • Shaw Industries
  • Whitfield County Sheriff’s Department