KNOX COUNTY — The United Way of Knox County held its highly anticipated Annual Meeting on March 7, 2024, commemorating the remarkable 2023 achievements and community impact made possible through generous donations.
The event, attended by community leaders, donors, volunteers, and partner agencies, provided a platform to reflect on the collective efforts and initiatives that have positively shaped the lives of individuals and families across Knox County.
Throughout the event, attendees were presented with compelling illustrations of the tangible differences made by United Way’s investments in education, health, and financial stability in Knox County. From providing essential support to vulnerable populations to fostering educational opportunities and promoting health and wellness initiatives, the United Way’s impact resonated deeply within the community.
“United Way partner agencies are the unsung heroes who navigate the frontlines of our community’s most pressing challenges with unwavering dedication and compassion. They are the ones who provide shelter to the homeless, meals to the hungry, education to the underserved, and hope to the hopeless. They walk with people through crisis and ensure they get to the other side. Their impact reverberates far and wide, touching the lives of individuals and families from all walks of life,” shared Halle Krajenski, Program Director for United Way.
In 2023, United Way allocated $155,722.00 across 8 local education programs, $316,930.00 across 13 local health programs, and $201,300.00 across 7 local financial stability programs. Additionally, the organization provided $27,350 in one-time grant awards and distributed $34,458 in Women United grant awards. United Way organized a Poverty Simulation in 2023, filed 551 free tax returns for residents, and mailed 27,038 books to Knox County children ages 0-5 through the Dolly Parton Imagination Library. United Way funded after-school tutoring programs at Dan Emmett, Pleasant Street, and East Elementary Schools, and supported 585 4th-grade students in the Crunch Out Knox County program.
This impact is made possible by the generous donors who support United Way initiatives.
“We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the generous donors of the United Way of Knox County for their unwavering support of local initiatives. It is through your compassion and commitment that our community continues to thrive and prosper. Your contributions have made a significant difference in the lives of individuals and families, fostering positive change and creating opportunities for a brighter future. We are deeply grateful for your partnership and dedication to building a stronger, more vibrant Knox County. Thank you for making our community a better place for all,” shared Lori Jones-Perkins, Executive Director.
For more information about the United Way of Knox County and opportunities to get involved, please visit www.uwayknox.org.