HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The 2019 United Way of Reno County campaign has officially kicked off. This is an effort to raise $1,350,000 for 25 different nonprofit agencies in the county.

Dr. Cory Jackson and his wife, Amanda, are the campaign chairs this year. Dr. Jackson talked about the decision to take on this role in an effort to raise the needed funds.

“We started giving to United Way when we moved back, starting at 15 years now, and we just see the need every day in our daily lives,” Dr. Jackson, who practices family medicine in Hutchinson, said. “We’ve used United Way services through Hospice House, the YMCA and Hutch Rec. Also, every day at work, I see the need in the places that United Way supports, after school programs and early education programs, so we just think it’s a great organization.” Jackson said he and his wife are excited to take on this role for United Way.

Amanda also talked about what she sees in the community and their desire to help with this campaign.

“I work in early education through the early education center as a physical therapist and go into homes. I see the impact that United Way has in our community,” Jackson said. She talked about the Dolly Parton Library and all the services that families need in this community. “It’s just a good fit for us to help this year,” Jackson said.

The United Way campaign is underway with the hope that local residents will donate enough money to reach the goal.