There’s something about this time of year that brings a renewed sense of energy. The days feel longer, the pace feels lighter, and it’s a natural moment to look ahead with a fresh perspective.

At United Way of Northwest Georgia, we’re stepping into 2026 with that same sense of momentum. Under the leadership of our Board Chair, Karen Townsend, we are focused on building on our strong foundation while leaning into new opportunities to serve our community in meaningful ways.

As we look ahead to our upcoming Board of Directors Retreat on March 11, Karen is casting an inspiring vision—one that centers on transformation while honoring our legacy of success. We remain committed to building a supportive community where every person in Northwest Georgia has the opportunity to thrive. We know that big change happens when we unite, and we are ready to step up in 2026.

"This year calls us to think bigger, lead boldly, and serve wholeheartedly. When we align our passion with purpose, there is no limit to the impact we can make together across Northwest Georgia." – Karen Townsend

I want to give a huge thank you to our 2026 Board of Directors for their servant leadership and dedication to our mission:

2026 Board Chair, *Karen Townsend, Community Volunteer

Board Members: Hank Blackwood (Dalton Utilities) | *Will Brackett (Nichols, Cauley & Associates) | Emily Brown (BDL Advisors) | Curtis Callaway (Shaw Industries) | *Elizabeth Caperton (Barrett Properties) | *Julian Dossche (International Flooring Company) | Carla Fain (Simply Organized by Carla) | Kelley Fain (Shaw Industries) | Mike Fromm (Shaw Industries) | Russell Headrick (Shaw Industries) | David Hobbs (Truist) | *Sandee Hooper (Community Volunteer) | Amy Kinard (Coldwell Banker Kinard Realty) | Brenda Knowles (Shaw Industries) | Zac Long (Overlooked Materials) | Juan Martinez (Shaw Industries) | *Matthew Moore (Scout Freight) | Marianne Murry (MurMade) | Asa Peeples (Textile Management Associates) | Gage Peeples (Textile Management Associates) | *David Pennington, IV (Advanced Insurance Strategies) | Patti Renz (Coldwell Banker Kinard Realty) | Micah Riggle (Mohawk Industries) | Sadde Salaices (Carniceria Nacho) | Cara Sandlin (McGriff Insurance Services) | *Jill Schubert (Mohawk Industries) | Jonathan Sierra (Marketing Alliance Group) | Lauren Sneary (Mohawk Industries) | Jamie Welborn (Shaw Industries) | Brent Williams (Shaw Industries) | *Kevin Wright (Marketing Alliance Group) | *Joe Young (Engineered Floors) | Will Young (Engineered Floors) *Executive Committee Members

A warm welcome to our newest board members:
•    Kelley Fain, Shaw Industries
•    Zac Long, Overlooked Materials
•    Asa Peeples, Textile Management Associates
•    Patti Renz, Coldwell Banker Kinard Realty
•    Micah Riggle, Mohawk Industries
•    Cara Sandlin, McGriff Insurance Services

We are so excited to have you on board!

Mark Your Calendars for These Exciting Events
National Volunteer Week (April 20-24) – We are celebrating five incredible volunteers and recognizing outstanding leaders at our Youth and Volunteer Awards Celebration. Get ready for inspiring stories and well-deserved honors, including the Elbert Shaw Memorial Scholarships, Youth Volunteer of the Year, and the Connie Woodward & Elaine Butler Outstanding Volunteerism Awards.

Power of the Purse (April 29, Walnut Hill Farm) – The Women’s Leadership Council is hosting the fourth annual Power of the Purse event! Enjoy fabulous raffles of designer purses, door prizes, and an empowering luncheon featuring keynote speaker and author, Ellen Skrimetti. Don’t miss this stylish and meaningful event to support our impact work—register now at ourunitedway.org/power-purse!

Pickleball Tournament (May 21, John Davis Recreation Facility) - The Young Leaders Society is hosting our first-ever pickleball tournament. Open to players of all skill levels, this exciting new event will bring our community together for fun, friendly competition — all in support of United Way’s mission. Whether you're a seasoned player or picking up a paddle for the first time, there’s a place for you on the court.

United Way of Northwest Georgia remains steadfast in our mission: Improving Lives. Inspiring Donors. Uniting Community. United is the way to healthier lives, stronger families, and thriving communities. Let’s work together to create a brighter future. Thank you for being part of this journey.

United is the Way!
Amanda Burt is the President of United Way of Northwest Georgia.
The mission of United Way is Improving Lives, Inspiring Donors, and Uniting Community.