United Way Announces $4.155 Million Goal
Dalton, GA — September 19, 2025 — United Way of Northwest Georgia kicked off its 2025–2026 annual campaign in true Camp United style at Burr Park on September 18, announcing a bold goal of $4.155 million to change lives in Whitfield and Murray counties.
Campaign Co-Chairs Sara and David Pennington, IV, joined by the Campaign Cabinet and Board of Directors, unveiled the goal during the high-energy Campaign Kickoff Party and 13th Annual CEO Trike Race. The event was fueled by excitement, friendly competition, and plenty of camp spirit.
Dalton Utilities pedaled their way to first place in the CEO Trike Race.
Dorsett Industries took home the Best Pit Crew award.
Engineered Floors snagged Best Uniform with their creative team style.
Dalton Utilities
Dorsett Industries
Engineered Floors
“It takes all of us working together to win for our community,” said Co-Chair David Pennington, IV. “For more than 80 years, United Way has been at the heart of Northwest Georgia, rallying neighbors, businesses, and volunteers to meet the greatest needs. We are proud to carry on that legacy today, and we are thrilled to see so many local leaders and companies joining forces to make an impact.”
This year’s kickoff was made possible thanks to the generous support of sponsors:
Presenting Sponsors: Dorsett Industries and Engineered Floors
Band Sponsor: Electric Motor Sales
Finish Line Sponsors: Dalton Utilities and Shaw Industries
Supporter Sponsors: JBM Office Solutions, Mannington Mills, and Mohawk Industries
Water Sponsors: The Carpentry and The Gallant Goat
United Way President Amanda Burt praised the leadership of Sara and David, “Each year, the United Way of Northwest Georgia campaign is driven by dynamic leaders. Sara and David have built an incredible team of campaigners and partners. I have no doubt we’ll reach our goal, and when we do, our entire community will feel the impact.”
The funds raised will stay local to fuel United Way’s four pillars of impact: Youth Opportunity, Financial Security, Healthy Community, and Community Resiliency. Contributions support vital programs like mentoring students, delivering meals to seniors, and helping struggling families.
Board Chair Jill Schubert captured the spirit of the evening, “We are a strong, vibrant community. When challenges arise, we show up for one another. That is what makes United Way so special and why this campaign matters.”
Fifty community volunteers help ensure every dollar is invested wisely, addressing the most critical needs efficiently and effectively.
“We all benefit when you give to United Way,” said Co-Chair Sara Pennington. “Together, we can make Whitfield and Murray counties even stronger.”
All trails lead to impact when we unite. Let's collaborate, help, and inspire one another like never before. We are a powerful and inspiring community. Join us in making a difference and changing lives! Visit www.ourunitedway.org to learn more or make a gift.
2025 United Way Campaign Cabinet
Sara & David Pennington, IV – Campaign Co-Chairs, Community Volunteer & Advanced Insurance Strategies • Zack Adamson – Engineered Floors • Amy Anderson – Human Resources Consulting • Bradley Austin – Shaw Industries, Inc. • Craig Bock – Engineered Floors • Emily Brown – BDL Advisors • Elizabeth Caperton – Barrett Properties • Scot Davis – Shaw Industries, Inc. • Shane Day – Textile Rubber & Chemical – Tiarco • David Gregg – Bank OZK • David Hobbs – Truist Bank • Ted Hogshead – International Flooring Company LLC • Sandee Hooper – Community Volunteer • Sven Jaekel – Dalton Utilities • Sarah Lewis – Community Volunteer • Chase Miller – Forth Surfaces • Zac Long – Overlooked Materials • John Patterson – Material Handling Inc. • Asa Peeples – Textile Management Associates • Gage Peeples – United Surface Solutions • Patti Renz – Coldwell Banker Kinard Realty • Sadde Salaices – Carniceria Nacho • Pete Sigmon – Shaw Industries Retiree • Karen Townsend – Community Volunteer • Kevin Wright – Marketing Alliance Group
2025 CEO Trike Race Teams
Aditya Birla • BDL Advisors • Carpets of Dalton • Dalton Public Schools • Dalton Utilities • Dorsett Industries • Emerald Carpets • Engineered Floors • International Flooring Company • Mannington Mills • Marketing Alliance Group • Material Handling Inc. • Mohawk Industries • Shaw Industries • Whitfield County Sheriff’s Department.