By RYAN SKAITH
The United Way of Greater St. Joseph highlighted accomplishments and presented awards during the group’s Annual Meeting, which was held Thursday at the Fulkerson Center on the campus of Missouri Western State University.
The annual meeting aims to bring together community leaders, partner agencies, volunteers and supporters to celebrate outstanding service and also approve new board members and leadership for the coming year.
Chairperson of the Board of Directors for 2026, Doug Walter, said the United Way had a lot of accomplishments over the past year, emphasizing the help United Way provided when SNAP benefits were cut last November. “We were able to step up and provide meal kits that were distributed through various groups.”
Walter added that United Way is about the needs of the community. “We try to find out what the needs of people are and be in that niche. Its been an exciting year with the campaign and raising funds so we can support all the different initiatives we have.”
According to Walter, some of the upcoming goals of the United Way in 2026 include rebranding, and looking at how to raise funds during the next campaign. “We want to get the word out into the community that they can partner with us in helping to build the next campaign.”
Outgoing Board Chairperson, Michelle Clark, said the fundraising campaign last year raised over $2.4-million. “The campaign went really well in 2025 which I’m really proud of. 90 cents of every dollar raised stays in the community.”
United Way of Greater Joseph primarily serves Buchanan and Andrew Counties in Missouri, as well as Doniphan County in Kansas.
Clark said one item the group is working on is expanding the Caring Connections Crew. “We’re going to try to build on that momentum. We had 30 crews this past year. What was most impactful was 18 of the Caring Connection Crews provided assistance and meal kits when SNAP benefits were threatened.”
During the meeting, several awards were distributed as well.
The Outstanding Volunteer Award went to Board Member and Community Investment Chair Brett Esely recognizing his leadership, commitment to United Way’s mission and contributions to advancing community impact through volunteerism and service.
The Spirit of Community Award was presented to Nestle Purina PetCare Packers Avenue Factory in recognition of its ongoing commitment to community support and engagement.
The Outstanding Partner Award was presented uniquely this year, not to a single organization, but to the collective partnership that amplifies United Way’s impact on the community.
Board members approved to three-year terms include, Andrew Love, Phil Michaud, Heather Weddle, Matt Wooten, and Shelley Wuerfele, along with Joseph Barbosa, Jenni Gaddie, Brenda Shields, and Donna Zion.
Board officers for 2026 include Chairperson Doug Walter, Vice Chair Heather Weddle, Secretary Jose Mueller, and Treasurer Joe Voltmer.
Retiring Board Members include, Kendra Bundy, Jan Glenn, and Nick Wollenman.
United Way supports 16 local partner agencies and initiatives.
The United Way’s Annual Report can be found here.
