As Chair of the United Way of Northwest Georgia’s Board of Directors, I have the privilege of seeing firsthand how our community’s generosity transforms lives. The compassion and commitment shown by our neighbors truly embody the spirit of Northwest Georgia: strong, resilient, and united.

To everyone who gives back, takes action, and gets involved, thank you. Because of you, United Way of Northwest Georgia can continue to support our neighbors, coworkers, and friends when they need it most. It is an honor to serve as your 2025 Chair of the Board of Directors and to see our mission in action every single day.

United Way is how Northwest Georgia takes care of its own. From funding programs that provide food for families and support early learning to strengthening mental health and promoting housing stability, United Way helps ensure that local people have the resources they need when life gets hard. Life can be unpredictable, but when we stand united, no one faces it alone, and together, we make our community stronger for all.

I invite you to join me in giving the gift of hope this season. Together, we can create a thriving community where everyone has the opportunity to succeed.

Meet Dustin: A United Way Impact Story

Diagnosed with a developmental disability early in life, Dustin faced more than his fair share of challenges. Finding meaningful work once seemed out of reach—until he connected with Cross Plains Community Partner, a United Way-funded agency dedicated to helping individuals with disabilities live fuller, more independent lives.

With guidance from his job coach and support from community-based services, Dustin gained real-world experience, built confidence, and developed the skills he needed for success. His breakthrough came when he was hired at Dos Bros Mexican Grill, where he quickly became a valued team member known for his reliability and positive attitude.

Today, Dustin works four days a week, navigates public transportation independently, and even mentors others in the program who are just starting their own journeys.

“I never thought I could do all this,” Dustin shares. “But now I know I can. I feel proud of who I am.”

Dustin’s story is a testament to what is possible when we invest in people. When you give to United Way of Northwest Georgia, you create opportunities. You help fund programs that provide critical support, open doors, and help people like Dustin turn dreams into reality. Together, we are turning barriers into opportunities.

As we enter this season of Thanksgiving, I am reminded that while many of us gather around tables filled with food and family, others in our community face very real struggles. Some are worrying about how to pay for heat as the temperatures drop, how to afford groceries for their children, or how to recover from unexpected hardships.

This November, as you reflect on what you are thankful for, I invite you to turn gratitude into action. Your gift to United Way ensures that families in Whitfield and Murray counties have access to the support and resources they need to thrive, not just during the holidays, but all year long.

Our 2025 Campaign Goal is $4.155 million, and we need your help to reach it. Until every need is met, our work continues.

Please consider investing in your community through United Way of Northwest Georgia. Together, we can create a thriving community and a better tomorrow for everyone.

Make your gift today at ourunitedway.org/give or mail a check to:
United Way of Northwest Georgia
P.O. Box 566, Dalton, GA 30722

Jill Schubert is the 2025 United Way of Northwest Georgia Chair of the Board of Directors. The mission of United Way is Improving Lives. Inspiring Donors. Uniting Community.