When you hear about the United Way, you might think of fundraising campaigns or workplace giving—but as Katie Ellis shared at this year’s United Way of Knox County Annual Meeting, it’s really about something much bigger: building a stronger, healthier community for everyone.

WNZR’s Marcy Rinehart had the chance to sit down with Ellis, the organization’s Executive Director, to talk through the heart of United Way’s work—and it all comes down to three key pillars: education, health, and financial stability.

Click HERE to hear the full interview with Katie, Outgoing Board Chair Sam Filkins, and 2026 Board Chair Todd Taylor!

Starting with education, Ellis explained that their focus begins early—really early. United Way is committed to walking alongside children and families from birth all the way through graduation. That includes programs like Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, which puts free books into the hands of young children across Knox County, helping spark a love for reading from the very beginning.

But it doesn’t stop there. Through partnerships with organizations like Head Start and the Salvation Army, United Way is helping families build strong foundations during those critical early years. And as students grow, so do the opportunities. Programs like ROX are helping young girls build confidence and emotional resilience as they transition into middle school, while free after-school tutoring is giving 3rd through 5th graders extra support as they prepare for state testing.

All told, nearly $295,000 was invested into education initiatives in 2025—showing just how serious United Way is about helping kids succeed at every stage.

That same level of commitment carries over into the health pillar. Ellis shared that the goal here is simple: make healthy living accessible for everyone, regardless of age or ability.

That includes offering free or low-cost health screenings for women, newborns, and new mothers through partnerships with Knox Public Health, Head Start, and NoCo Health. But it also means thinking creatively about what “access” really looks like.

From wheelchair-accessible garden beds at the community garden to programs like Cycling Without Age, United Way is working to remove barriers and create opportunities for people to stay active and engaged. They’ve also partnered with the YMCA to provide scholarships and memberships so that finances don’t stand in the way of healthy lifestyles.

One of the biggest highlights? Every first grader in Knox County will now learn how to ride a bike in PE class thanks to the All Kids Bike program.

In 2025 alone, more than $272,000 was invested into health initiatives.

The third pillar—financial stability—focuses on helping individuals and families move forward, especially during difficult seasons.

Ellis explained that this work combines immediate assistance with long-term support. United Way partners with organizations like the Winter Sanctuary and New Directions to help people find stable housing, while also offering financial coaching to help them stay on track.

In times of crisis, partnerships with Interchurch Social Services, the Red Cross, and the Salvation Army help provide rent and utility assistance. And through their resource navigation program and the 2-1-1 hotline, residents can quickly connect with the services they need.

In 2025, over $301,000 was invested into financial stability programs—making it the largest of the three pillars.

Of course, none of this happens alone.

Ellis emphasized that United Way’s impact is truly a community effort. Local businesses, organizations, and volunteers all play a role—from major contributors like Ariel Corporation, Park National Bank, and Kokosing Construction to institutions like Kenyon College and Knox Community Hospital.

And it’s not just about dollars. In 2025, volunteers gave 972 hours of their time—supporting everything from tax preparation through VITA to community events like the Day of Caring.

One standout example? The Knox County Board of Developmental Disabilities, which has achieved 19 consecutive years of 100% employee participation in giving.

As the conversation wrapped up, Ellis shared a look at the bigger picture. United Way passed its 2024 audit with strong results, keeping administrative costs low and ensuring that more than 86 cents of every dollar goes directly back into community programs.

And perhaps most importantly, she reminded listeners that United Way is bigger than any one person or campaign. It’s a movement that’s been part of Knox County for 75 years—investing millions of dollars and helping shape the community in lasting ways.

There’s also a sense of momentum moving forward.

Outgoing Board Chair Sam Filkins reflected on his long connection to United Way and reassured the community that even with recent transitions, the mission remains strong and local. Incoming 2026 Board Chair Todd Taylor echoed that confidence, sharing a vision focused on sustainability, collaboration, and listening closely to community needs.

As United Way looks ahead to its 75th anniversary in 2026, the message is clear: the work is ongoing, the partnerships are strong, and the impact is real.

Click HERE to read the United Way’s Annual Report!

Click HERE to learn more about the United Way of Knox County!