“The Decatur County United Fund is proud to be celebrating 65 years of dedicated service to our community, shared Joane Cunningham, Executive Director of the Decatur County United Fund. It is exciting for us to look back over our 65-year history, remembering those individuals involved in our organization over the years, celebrating the progress we’ve made, and looking forward to the years to come.”
The Decatur County United Fund, founded in May 1957, initially sought to provide a united effort for securing funding for various charitable, health and civic projects in the community. Continuing its mission of “Together Building Hope, Health, & Stability for Our Community,” the Decatur County United Fund continues to provide funding to support local non-profit agencies throughout the county. However, over the past fourteen years, the Decatur County United Fund has evolved from its roots as simply a fundraising organization, to an organization that also serves as a community organizer; mobilizing businesses, organizations, community leaders, and local residents to expand opportunities for people to succeed. In recent years, the United Fund has identified community needs and added initiatives to address those needs. These include Camp Invention – a STEM camp for youth, Moral Reconation Therapy – for those incarcerated, Governor’s Work Ethic Certification – youth development and workforce readiness, Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library – early education for infants/youth, and more.
In 1957, following months of preparation and many meetings, the first Decatur County United Fund Board of Directors was appointed. Founding members included Hartford Sallee, Leland S. Taylor, Al Page and W. Lowell Headlee, each being appointed to serve a one year term. Wallis W. Wood, Robert D. Platt, Rev. Stanley M. Dodgson and Ed R. Neimeyer were each appointed to a two year term with Ralph E. Ponsler, Charles Newlon, Hubert E. Wickens and Walter B. Lowe serving a three year term. This group established the initial bylaws and governance structure for the Decatur County United Fund, providing guidance during the early days of the organization and beyond. With progress and updates, their vision for the organization continues today led by many generous, community minded volunteers.
The 2022 Decatur County United Fund Board of Directors carry on that proud 65-year tradition. Directors include Scott Wesseler, President; Suzanne Horan, First Vice President; Taryn Owens, Second Vice President; and Jayne McCleland, Secretary/Treasurer. In addition, Brett Abplanalp, Sue Auffenberg, Amy Bray, Sally Cuskaden, Blake O’Mara, Nick Wallpe, and Matt Weber serve as board members. Today, the Decatur County United Fund Board of Directors also includes a student representative from each of the three area high schools. Students serving in 2022 are Paige Wesseler, North Decatur High School; Jack Hamilton, South Decatur High School; and Jessica Williams, Greensburg Community High School.
Hartford Sallee served as the first President of the United Fund in 1957 with Charles Newlon leading the organization’s efforts as the first Campaign Chair with a lofty goal of raising $54,544.00. Nine agencies were funded through the first campaign including the American Red Cross, Decatur County Cancer Society, Boy Scouts of America, Girl Scouts of America, Muscular Dystrophy Association, Salvation Army, Decatur County YMCA, Decatur County Association for Mental Health and Little League Baseball. The community has grown over the years, and the United Fund Campaign has grown too, continually striving to meet community needs. In 2022, the United Fund Campaign, led by the Board of Directors, raised a total of $605,514; just shy of the $610,000 record in 2018.
Planning is already underway for the 2022 Campaign, and this year’s theme, “Positive Change Doesn’t Happen Alone”, illustrates the commitment and continued focus on connecting community advocates to impact the greater good.
Much has changed over the past 65 years, but one thing remains a constant. The success of the Decatur County United Fund and its ability to continue to provide funding for valuable programs and services in our community is due to the dedicated service of many talented people. Volunteers today continue to serve as board members providing leadership and organizational direction. Many other volunteers serve on a variety of committees throughout the year lending expertise, guidance and oversight of the many functions of the United Fund. Nonprofit partner organizations, the recipients of United Fund grant funding, continue to work to provide vital services and improved quality of life. Today, as in 1957, the generosity and dedication of individuals, businesses, and corporations in our community contribute to a future of innovation, continued impact and a thriving Decatur County United Fund. There is no doubt; the same will be true over the course of the next 65 years.
As our community work continues, the $65 for the 65th Anniversary challenge is happening now until May 6. With your pledge of $65 to help support 16 nonprofits, you will be in the drawing for a basket of Decatur County goodies. The value of the basket is $225 and the winner will be announced on May 6. Your ONE gift helps the following funded partners of Decatur County United Fund: Advocates for Children, American Red Cross, Carousel Play and Learn Center, Catch A Ride, Champions of Youth, Children’s Advocacy Center of Southeastern Indiana, Community Healthcare Clinic, Decatur County Youth Baseball, Girl Scouts, Greensburg Community Bread of Life, Head Start, Human Services, Our Hospice, Rural Works Program, Speranza House, and Decatur County YMCA.
The Decatur County United Fund
“Together Building Hope, Health, & Stability for Our Community.”
1957-2022
For information, please contact the Decatur County United Fund at 812-663-3342, unitedfunddc@etczone.com or visit www.dcuf.com
