SIDNEY - The latest good news is the United Way of Sidney’s 2010 campaign surpassed its goal, results attributed to the hard work of the United Way of Sidney team and the generous support of the community. The announcement of the successful results of the campaign came at the annual meeting of the United Way of Sidney held Saturday, Jan. 29 at Trackside Diner. Dennis Porter, executive director, reported that $88,889 was collected for the Sidney area community and another $11,057 for other local community chests and United Ways that were designated by donors of various business campaigns. Carol Allen and Scott Hasselbarth, campaign co-chairs, were recognized for surpassing the $87,200 goal set by the board of directors at the beginning of 2010. President Sheri Youngs noted, "Although the economy is still recovering, people have been very generous. This is a great community that supports the United Way of Sidney."

Each of the fifteen member agencies presented a report high-lighting how their agency used the United Way funding, and explained the programs and services they provide to the community. Highlights for the United Way of Sidney in 2010 included providing $49,900 to member agencies at the annual meeting held at the beginning of 2010. Another $14,000 was given out in 2010 for competitive grants awarded throughout the year. Some of the items funded included a new hot water heater for the Delaware Valley Humane Society Animal Shelter, playmats for Cullman Child Development Center, Booster Books funding at the Sidney Memorial Public Library, new air hockey table, summer program for the Boys and Girls Club of Sidney and a program encouraging fitness for our youth using collaborations with the Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, Red Cross and Boys and Girls Club of Sidney. The United Way of Sidney

also worked with community members on the Focus On Youth Initiative collaboration. They helped purchase a Welcome to Sidney sign in collaboration with the Sidney Chamber of Commerce, as well as supporting the Arts and Music Festival. The organization also purchased banners for all their member agencies to help promote their relationship with the United Way of Sidney. "The United Way of Sidney is proud that we are able to raise funds to help our member agencies make available the services our partners provide the community," said Dennis Porter, executive director. A meeting of the United Way of Sidney Board of Directors was held following the annual meeting. Officers for 2011 were elected, including Bob Weitzman, president; Scott Hasselbarth, vice president; Carol Allen, secretary; and Debra Philpott, treasurer. Dennis Porter was appointed executive director.

PLAQUES ARE PRESENTED by United Way of Sidney President Sheri Youngs and Executive Director Dennis Porter to Campaign Co-Chairs Carol Allen and Scott Hasselbarth in recognition of a successful 2010 campaign.

Reprint from The Tri-Town News