MOUNT VERNON — United Way of Knox County has officially launched its annual community campaign.
The campaign brings together businesses, organizations, community leaders, and residents from across Knox County to invest in programs that strengthen the community and improve the lives of local families.
This year’s campaign is particularly meaningful as United Way of Knox County celebrates its 75th anniversary of serving the community.
United Way set an ambitious goal for this year’s campaign: raise $1 million to help meet the rising needs of individuals and families throughout Knox County.
The 2026 campaign, “We Stand United. We Live United.”, is focused on a simple idea: When Knox County comes together, the entire community becomes stronger.
Funds raised support United Way’s work throughout Knox County, including investments in local nonprofit organizations and initiatives addressing education, health, financial stability, and other critical community needs.
“For 75 years, United Way has been part of the fabric of Knox County,” campaign chair Todd Hawkins said. “Today, the needs facing our neighbors continue to grow, and we believe our community is ready to respond.
“Our goal is to raise $1 million this year so we can help meet those rising needs and ensure that critical programs and services are there for the people who need them.”
75th anniversary challenge and merchandise
To mark the milestone, United Way is issuing a special 75th Anniversary Challenge designed to give everyone a meaningful way to participate.
“If you have never given to United Way before, we are asking you to celebrate our 75th anniversary by making your first gift of $75,” Hawkins said.
“And if you already support United Way, we are asking you to stretch with us. Add $75, $175, $575, or whatever amount is meaningful to you to your previous gift. If thousands of people across Knox County step up together, we can reach $1 million.”
United Way of Knox County also created limited-edition 75th anniversary merchandise to recognize donors who step up during the campaign.
New donors who make a gift of $175 or more, or existing donors who increase their previous annual gift by at least $75, will receive a limited-edition United Way of Knox County 75th Anniversary YETI, while supplies last.
“We wanted to create something special that recognizes the people who are stepping up for Knox County during this milestone year,” Hawkins said. “The YETI is a small way for us to say thank you — and something our supporters can carry with pride knowing
they helped make a difference in their community.”
Campaign engages communities, businesses and organizations throughout the county
The 2026 campaign will engage communities throughout Knox County while also reaching businesses and organizations across the healthcare, education, agriculture, manufacturing, retail, utilities, government and small business industries.
Local businesses are encouraged to participate through corporate giving and workplace campaigns. Individuals throughout Knox County are invited to make a personal contribution.
Businesses that have supported United Way in previous years are encouraged to increase their investment as part of the 75th Anniversary Challenge.
United Way is asking community leaders to help open doors, introduce the campaign to businesses and organizations, and encourage their employees, colleagues, friends, and neighbors to participate.
“Our goal is bigger than simply raising money,” Hawkins said. “We want to create a culture of giving throughout Knox County. We want people to see a United Way sign outside a local business or hear that their neighbor made a gift and know that they are part of something bigger — a community choosing to stand together.”
United Way will share stories throughout the campaign demonstrating how contributions are being put to work locally and highlighting the organizations, businesses, volunteers, and donors helping make that work possible.
Visit United Way of Knox County’s website for more information.