Danny Avery has been hard at work during his three months at the helm for the local United Way.
New executive director for the United Way of Lowndes County and Columbus native Danny Avery spoke to Columbus Exchange Club members Thursday afternoon at Lion Hills Center, highlighting United Way’s efforts and inciting a commitment to local service.
“The solutions to the problems that plague our area are not found in Washington or the courthouse,” Avery said. “It’s found in this room.”
Avery spoke of the “impoverished” and problem-stricken Columbus area and called on Exchange Club members to take initiative to contribute to community and United Way efforts to combat poverty, literacy and health problems.
“We want this to be a better community to live, to work, to raise our children,” Avery said.
He said the Lowndes County United Way works with local school districts, Salvation Army and many other organizations to provide free services to community members in need. United Way is working with school districts to introduce volunteer opportunities in elementary classrooms promoting reading and literacy. The organization collaborates with Salvation Army to provide classes to encourage healthy living, and it provides services to combat addiction, offers social support and gives financial help through other organizations.
“Of every dollar donated to United Way in Columbus, 99 cents stays local,” Avery said.
He also noted donations do not fund salaries or administration. Monetary donations only fund non-profit partner agencies and community projects.
Avery concluded the Exchange meeting with an activity involving club members. He had various members hold and read posters, each with a unique personal problem, to demonstrate the variety of needs United Way targets.
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