Joann McKinney Leads Charge for $2 million United Way Campaign
Oct
19
Written by:
Friday, October 19, 2012
The Star Press MUNCIE — Linda Carter isn’t the only superhero out there. Joann McKinney is vying for the title right here in Delaware County.
Not only has she found time to attend her children’s basketball games and cross-country meets while acting as president and CEO of the often busy Horizon Convention Center, she is chairperson of the United Way of Delaware Co
unty’s fundraising campaign.
“She’s amazing ... she just doesn’t quit. How she gets everything done and is still so positive is amazing,” said Karen Hemberger, interim president and CEO for the local United Way. “It really shows how passionate she is, not only about the United Way, but about this community. She goes above and beyond the call of duty. She’s Wonder Woman.”
McKinney’s talents will be needed this year during the annual campaign, which has a goal of $2 million.
The United Way this summer decreased their funding dollars to a majority of their 24 partner agencies, including Hillcroft Services, Bridges Community Services and other nonprofits, due to the lack of money raised during the prior campaign.
McKinney isn’t intimidated by the economic outlook. Her optimism has played a role in her success on the UW’s campaign cabinet, the Invest
in Youth fundraising committee and other region-wide projects.
She believes this community will “step up to the plate” and meet the needs of those less fortunate.
“I really think the economy is taking a turn for the better and people are being cautiously optimistic with their funds ... but they will give,” she said. “But the days of people writing a check and not knowing much about organizations — and how they’re held accountable — are over. That’s why it’s even more important to meet with people and tell how them how the agency is meeting the area’s needs and how they’re doing so.”
Along with meeting with longtime donors about the UW’s work to support agencies creating change in Delaware County, McKinney has also met with new CEOs and potential donors who may be unaware of the funding organization’s importance to the community.
She believes the attention given to nonprofits that saw their funding cut this year will give residents the motivation to give more. The reality of what happens when dollars aren’t raised will inspire them to support an agency that provides dollars to many, she said.
McKinney was born and raised in the area and wants to see great things come its way, not only for her family, but everyone’s, she said.
Her husband of 21 years has been equally inspired of his wife’s ability to keep fighting — with a positive attitude — for the region.
“It’s great that’s she’s leading the campaign. She always brings a lot of energy, a lot of passion to everything she does,” said her husband, Mark McKinney. “She’s an awesome person ... no matter what kind of day I’ve had, she can always make me smile. She’s doing great.”
Contact news reporter Ivy Farguheson at 213-5829