ASHLAND — United Way of Ashland County celebrated a highly successful campaign and several major community initiatives at its annual meeting on May 7, bringing together local leaders, donors, and partners to reflect on the impact of this year’s work and look ahead to the future.
The organization announced that it has raised $1,002,361.19, surpassing both its original campaign goal of $925,000 and a $1 million challenge issued mid-campaign. The campaign was led by Campaign Chair Nicole Hawks, whose leadership, personal investment, and commitment to the community helped drive the effort forward.
A strong advocate for Ashland’s future, Nicole brought both energy and authenticity to the role, including baking more than 7,000 cookies as part of her fundraising efforts and engaging others to give and get involved.
“This campaign reflects what is possible when a community shows up,” said Executive Director Stacy Schiemann. “Every gift, large and small, played a role in helping us reach this milestone and, more importantly, in strengthening the network of support available to individuals and families across Ashland County.”
As part of the campaign’s success, United Way announced the establishment of a $1 million endowment, to be held at the Ashland County Community Foundation, made possible through a gift from Bob and Jan Archer. The endowment will provide a sustainable source of annual funding to support United Way’s partner agencies and ongoing community needs.
The evening also included the presentation of the first-ever Community Impact Award to Bob and Jan Archer, recognizing their decades of leadership, philanthropy, and influence in shaping both United Way of Ashland County and the broader nonprofit community.
Jan Archer served as Executive Director beginning in 1985 and led the organization through a pivotal transition, guiding the United Appeal to become the United Way of Ashland County in 1990. Together, Bob and Jan Archer have been longstanding supporters of United Way and its partner agencies, contributing both financial resources and leadership to numerous community initiatives.
In addition to celebrating campaign success, United Way announced new investments aimed at strengthening the future of the community:
- The creation of the Kay Conrad Day of Caring Fund, designed to sustain and grow the organization’s signature volunteer event, which mobilizes more than 300 volunteers annually to assist over 100 local seniors.
- The official launch and naming of the Jan L. Archer Fellowship Program, a collaborative initiative between United Way of Ashland County, the Ashland Area Chamber of Commerce, and the Ashland County Community Foundation. The program places college students with local nonprofit organizations for project-based summer experiences, helping build a pipeline of future leaders while expanding capacity for participating agencies.
After being piloted last year with two Fellows, this The Fellowship Program will include six student fellows in its inaugural summer cohort, each working on projects designed to enhance nonprofit operations and impact.
Throughout the evening, speakers highlighted the real-world impact of community support, including stories of individuals and families who have benefited from the services provided by United Way’s partner agencies.
“Ultimately, this work is about people,” Schiemann said. “It’s about ensuring that when someone in our community needs help, there is a system in place to support them, and that together, we continue building a stronger future for everyone.”
For more information about United Way of Ashland County or to support its work, visit www.uwashlandoh.org.
About United Way of Ashland County
United Way of Ashland County works to improve lives by mobilizing the caring power of the community. Through partnerships with local agencies and organizations, United Way invests in programs and services that address critical needs and strengthen the overall health of Ashland County.