United Way kicks off 2016-17 campaign

Before United Way of Jasper County Executive Director Jessica Lowe handed out donation collection materials at Wednesday’s annual campaign kickoff luncheon, it was important everyone in the room take an oath.

Lowe was assisted in leading about 25 UWJC board members, partner agency representatives and campaign coordinators in taking the oath with the best possible individual — Batman.

A member of the Iowa League of Heroes, dressed as “The Dark Knight,” helped Lowe extol the United Way’s causes, which range from help with health or food security needs to assistance with home heating costs. And the oath, in step with Wednesday’s lighthearted meeting, ended with “I solemnly swear that if I win the Powerball, I’ll donate half of my winnings to the United Way of Jasper County.”

There were other humorous moments as Lowe explained the more serious needs of Jasper County residents, of whom 33 percent receive at least one service funded through the United Way. The purpose of Wednesday’s luncheon was to help introduce board members and representatives of partner agencies to each other and to hand out packets with information on the annual campaign.

The goal for the 2016 campaign was $330,000, and UWJC nearly met its goal, garnering $305,000. The $330,000 mark will be the goal again for 2017.

“I really do appreciate everyone’s help,” Lowe told everyone at the luncheon. “Remember, almost all of our donations stay local — we send 1 cent to United Way Worldwode, and the rest goes right back to agencies and organizations here in Jasper County.”

The Dark Night’s appearance was part of the super hero theme and slogan for UWJC’s 2017 campaign: “Be heroic. Live United.” The unnamed costumed man came to the luncheon on behalf of the Iowa League of Heroes, an organization that arranges for individuals who own their own costumes to attend various nonprofit events, often involving children.

Lowe said she is hoping to have a busy schedule in addressing groups and businesses around the county, with board members and others helping to set up those meetings. She said she’s willing to bring in a slide show or various other presentation means to show the importance of donating to the United Way.

There are also some large fundraiser events — the Autograph and Experience Auction being the most visible one. Some of this year’s auction items were on display Wednesday. This year’s auction is slated for Nov. 4 at Fore Seasons.

Last year’s Autograph and Experience Auction brought in about $15,000.

Contact Jason W. Brooks at 641-792-3121 ext. 6532 or jbrooks@newtondailynews.com