The Knox County Regional Airport is opening its doors to the community in a new way with the dedication of the Becker Mining Systems Aviation Education Center Saturday, June 27th from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m..
WNZR’s Eric Brown recently spoke with Mark Fritz of the Knox County Airport Authority about the new 10,000-square-foot facility and the opportunities it will create for both aviation and the community.
While the building will serve as an aircraft hangar on a day-to-day basis, Fritz says the larger vision extends far beyond aviation. The facility includes four classrooms and meeting spaces designed to support educational programs, leadership development, and community use.
Fritz says the Aviation Education Center will be available for organizations such as the Civil Air Patrol, local schools, Boy Scouts, and other community groups. The goal is to create a welcoming space where people can learn, connect, and explore opportunities in aviation and beyond.
The project reflects the continued growth of the airport, which Fritz says is currently operating at full capacity. He notes that the airport plays an important role in Knox County’s transportation network by supporting medical flights, business travel, and providing access for companies and investors considering opportunities in the area.
To celebrate the new facility, the airport is hosting a grand opening event featuring aircraft displays, flight simulators, Touch-a-Truck activities, educational exhibits, and opportunities to explore the airport firsthand.
Fritz says the strong support from local businesses, organizations, and residents demonstrates how important the airport has become to the county’s future. He hopes the new Aviation Education Center will help introduce even more people to the opportunities available through aviation while serving as a valuable resource for the community.
He encourages residents to visit the airport, learn more about its role in Knox County, and experience the new facility for themselves.
Click HERE to learn more about the Knox County Regional Airport!
The Heart of Ohio USA Days Festival is returning to Centerburg for its 21st year, bringing two days of family-friendly entertainment, live music, food, rides, and fireworks to Memorial Park.
WNZR’s Marcy Rinehart and Olivia Skillings recently spoke with Candy McCracken, President of the Heart of Ohio USA Days Festival, who has been involved with the event since its beginning.
McCracken says one of her biggest motivations for helping organize the festival is making sure today’s children have the same opportunities she enjoyed growing up. She remembers attending community festivals and events throughout her childhood and wants future generations to create those same memories.
The festival begins Friday at 1 p.m. and continues until 9:30 p.m. Activities include rides, food vendors, crafters, Cowboy the Pony, face painting, and the return of the popular Reptile Adventure, where visitors can interact with snakes, lizards, frogs, and other animals while learning more about them.
Friday’s entertainment schedule includes the Waterloo 5 Band at 2 p.m., followed by the Baby Crawl and Toddler Race at 6:30 p.m. The Little Miss Liberty and Little Uncle Sam Pageant begins at 7 p.m., with live music from Katie and the Red Hots closing out the evening at 8 p.m.
Saturday starts with the festival parade at 10 a.m. featuring the Columbus Saints Drum and Bugle Corps. Following the parade, the American flag will be raised and the National Anthem performed before activities officially begin at noon.
Saturday attractions include a Princess Party featuring Moana and Merida, Old-Time Wrestling at 2 p.m., a karaoke competition at 4 p.m. with youth and adult divisions and cash prizes, Nicks and Tricks at 6 p.m., and Crossthread at 8 p.m.
The festival concludes with fireworks at 10 p.m., sponsored by Peter Hayden Chapman Amvets Post 59 and Charles Andrews American Legion Post 460, which together funded the $10,000 display.
This year’s festival also celebrates the upcoming America 250 observance, with patriotic themes featured throughout the weekend, especially during Saturday’s parade.
McCracken reminds visitors that parking at Memorial Park is very limited due to the new playground and is reserved for vendors and handicap parking. Additional public parking is available in designated lots near downtown Centerburg, with walking access to the festival grounds.
She also expressed appreciation for the many volunteers and organizers who help make the event possible each year. Those interested in supporting the festival or volunteering can find more information through the Heart of Ohio USA Days Festival Facebook page, at heartofohiousa.com, or by contacting festival organizers directly.
Click HERE to find out more about the Heart of Ohio USA Days Festival!
(Photo courtesy of Heart of Ohio USA Days website)
As food costs continue to rise, a new partnership in Knox County is working to provide extra support for local seniors.
WNZR’s Eric Brown recently spoke with Carolyn Fergus about a new food assistance opportunity available through Interchurch Social Services of Knox County.
Interchurch is partnering with Mid-Ohio Food Collective to offer the Commodity Supplemental Food Program, which provides monthly food boxes to income-qualified adults age 60 and older.
According to Carolyn, the program is designed to help seniors stretch their food budgets while still receiving nutritious food items each month. Seniors who qualify will receive boxes filled with a variety of staple foods, including cereal, oats, pasta, rice, canned fruits and vegetables, dairy products, and protein sources. The contents of the boxes will vary from month to month, but the goal remains the same: helping supplement a senior’s diet with reliable food assistance.
Carolyn explained that participants will need to provide identification and proof of residency during the sign-up process, while income is self-reported on the application. She encouraged seniors who may qualify to begin signing up now ahead of the first shipment, which is expected to arrive in early June.
While the first delivery is expected to include around 90 food boxes, Carolyn says there is room for growth if community demand increases. She emphasized that the program is meant to serve as an additional resource for seniors and does not replace Interchurch’s regular pantry services.
In fact, she encouraged eligible seniors to continue utilizing the Interchurch food pantry, which offers fresh foods, frozen meats, and other grocery items throughout the month. The organization hopes the new program will provide even more stability for seniors facing rising grocery costs and financial pressures.
Food distribution will be available not only at the Mount Vernon office, but also through Interchurch locations in Centerburg, Fredericktown, and Danville, making the program more accessible to seniors across Knox County.
Carolyn also asked the community to continue praying for Interchurch, its staff, volunteers, and the families they serve as food assistance needs continue to grow throughout the county. She noted that volunteers are always needed to help distribute food and support daily operations.
For more information about the Commodity Supplemental Food Program or other Interchurch services, residents can call 740-397-4825 or click HERE!
During the April Spotlight on Mount Vernon, WNZR’s Eric Brown sat down with Mount Vernon Mayor Matt Starr for a wide-ranging update—and it’s clear the city is moving full speed ahead into a busy spring season.
One of the biggest updates comes from the aftermath of the March 13th storms. Mayor Starr says cleanup is now officially complete, after crews worked through every street in the city. What was expected to take about a week stretched into three and a half weeks, but the effort paid off. Starr credited teams from Public Works, Parks, and other departments for tackling the large amount of debris and getting things back in order. He also noted repairs at the Curtis family gravesite in Mount Vernon Cemetery and reminded residents to take part in spring cleanup efforts as the city prepares for Memorial Day.
Looking ahead, attention is turning to long-discussed demolition projects north of Public Square. Starr says bids are due May 7th for the removal of several condemned buildings. While those structures will soon come down, pieces of history are being preserved. Materials from the Curtis Building have been saved, and detailed 3D scans were completed to document the structure before demolition begins.
Environmental work is also a major focus. Starr discussed ongoing brownfield efforts—projects aimed at cleaning up former industrial sites before redevelopment. The city has applied for grant funding to address areas along South Sandusky Street and Long Phillips Drive, where past use left contamination behind. If approved, those funds would help prepare the land for future development while protecting the surrounding environment.
Safety improvements around schools are also underway. Through the Safe Routes to School program, work is happening near Saint Vincent de Paul School, including resurfacing, curb upgrades, and new safety features like bump-outs and flashing beacons. Additional projects are planned along Martinsburg Road, including bridge repairs, resurfacing, and future sidewalk installation—all part of a broader push to improve infrastructure in school zones.
And speaking of infrastructure, road construction season is officially in full swing. Crews are addressing erosion issues, repairing and resurfacing streets, and upgrading traffic signals along Coshocton Avenue with new radar technology. Work is also happening on brick streets, Blackberry Alley, and in neighborhoods across the city. Starr acknowledged the inconvenience but emphasized that these improvements are designed to benefit the entire community long-term.
There’s also plenty happening in Mount Vernon’s parks and public spaces. New swings have been installed at Riverside Park, and the splash pad will reopen from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Hiawatha Water Park is set to open June 2nd. Maintenance work—including painting and equipment repairs—is ongoing, while Public Square is being prepared with fountain and lighting updates. Starr also shared an ambitious goal of planting more than 400 trees this year and encouraged residents to attend an upcoming neighborhood meeting tied to a grant application for additional street and infrastructure improvements.
At the city government level, Starr says City Council has officially begun meeting in the new municipal center. Recent actions include approving road salt purchases, managing impounded vehicle disposal, and continuing traffic and infrastructure studies. Updates are also moving forward on the North Sandusky intersection project, South Sandusky improvements, and new curbside recycling requirements.
Public safety remains a priority as well. Starr says police and fire departments are staying busy, especially with warmer weather bringing increased activity. Training continues, including rescue simulations for the fire department. The city has also selected a new assistant fire chief, and a new medic unit is expected soon—with a traditional push-in ceremony planned to mark its arrival.
Beyond city operations, there are plenty of opportunities for community connection. Starr highlighted events like the Songwriters Circle at the Woodward Opera House and reflected on the recent Rwanda remembrance event hosted in partnership with MVNU, calling it both powerful and humbling. He also pointed to Celebrate Trails Day and National Bike to Work Day as ways residents can get involved and stay active.
Coming up soon, the citywide yard sale trail will take place May 2nd and 3rd, with free permits available for participants. City Cleanup Day is scheduled for May 9th at Ariel Foundation Park. Starr also invited residents to attend the Washington Forum on April 28th, focused on land and conservation, in partnership with MVNU and Kenyon College.
As the conversation wrapped up, Starr reflected on the often unseen work of public service. While much of it happens behind the scenes, he says it plays a critical role in maintaining and improving the community. He asked residents to keep city leaders in prayer for wisdom and stewardship and encouraged everyone to stay connected through the city’s website, social media, and direct communication with city offices.
Click HERE for the City of Mount Vernon’s website!
Food for the Hungry is stepping into a new season, and there are some important updates for the Knox County community.
During a recent conversation on WNZR, Marcy Rinehart talked with Lisa Lloyd, Vice President of the Board of Directors, about a leadership transition and what’s ahead for the organization.
Executive Director Kathy Brechler is moving into full retirement. While she has served in the role for the past two years, her connection to Food for the Hungry goes back to 2011, when she helped launch the Snowflake Gala. She also created Pantry Partners Access Meetings, bringing local food pantries together to share resources and better serve the community.
As the organization looks ahead, the board is now searching for an Annual Drive and Community Relations Director. This role will oversee the December drive, manage community relationships, coordinate events, and help lead grant programs. The goal is to have someone in place by early summer, with a soft application deadline of April 24th.
At the same time, April is a busy month. The Summer Grant Program is open now through noon on April 30th. These grants support organizations providing meals during the summer, especially for students who no longer have access to school breakfasts and lunches.
It’s a reminder that Food for the Hungry serves Knox County all year long—not just during the holidays.
You can stay connected through their Facebook page or by visiting the website, where you’ll find pantry listings, volunteer opportunities, event information, and applications for both the open position and summer grants.
Click HERE to learn more about Food For The Hungry!
WNZR’s Eric Brown recently sat down with Matt Starr to talk through some of the biggest updates impacting the city—from storm recovery to future planning.
Following the March 13th windstorm, Mayor Starr shared that 41 trees fell across Mount Vernon, leaving behind a significant cleanup effort. Crews are already hard at work, but with the amount of debris, it could take a couple more weeks to fully clear the city.
Because of the scale of the damage, the city plans to make one full pass through neighborhoods rather than multiple pickups. Starr encouraged residents to lend a hand where possible—especially by taking debris to the Knox County Compost Site—as crews continue balancing storm cleanup with their regular duties. He noted this storm ranks among the most impactful since the 2012 derecho.
Curtis Building Condemned
The conversation also turned to damage at the historic Curtis Building. High winds caused part of the façade to separate, raising serious safety concerns.
After inspection, the city’s appeals board unanimously voted to condemn the buildings just north of City Hall, with demolition expected within 90 days. While Starr acknowledged the emotional weight tied to the Curtis family’s legacy, he emphasized that public safety must come first. The city plans to explore ways to honor that history in the future.
Strong Financial Outlook
On a more positive note, Starr highlighted strong financial performance during his State of the City address. In 2025, Mount Vernon saw record tax revenue exceeding $22 million, driven by payroll withholdings, business taxes, and commuter contributions.
Additional growth came from lodging taxes—boosted by new hotel activity—as well as grants, permits, and utility revenues. Combined with more than $17 million in private housing investment, Starr says the city is in a solid position for continued growth.
Progress Across the City
Starr also pointed to several key accomplishments. The Public Works Department responded to 31 winter weather events, keeping roads clear despite heavy demands. Meanwhile, community amenities continue to grow, including the popular Captain Hunter Splash Pad and ongoing improvements on the city’s west side.
Looking ahead, the city is pursuing funding for projects like Arch Avenue Park and upgrades to Memorial Park. Safety services are also advancing, with increased training and more certified operators across departments.
Connecting with the Community
Mayor Starr is taking his message directly to residents, scheduling presentations with businesses, churches, and community groups. He says these face-to-face conversations are key—especially as discussions continue around downtown development and the South Sandusky corridor.
New City Role Focused on Growth
The city is also hiring a Community Development and Public Information Officer. Starr described the role as more than communications—it’s about building partnerships, strengthening community engagement, and identifying new revenue opportunities through sponsorships and fundraising.
City Council Updates
Recent action from City Council includes approving sidewalk improvements on Martinsburg Road through the Safe Routes to School program. A $500,000 grant will also support a study of a dangerous intersection on North Sandusky Street.
In addition, council approved borrowing up to $29 million for a new police station, with current estimates closer to $26 million. Planning is moving forward as the city continues addressing infrastructure and safety needs.
Focus on Safety and Training
The Safety Services Department remains focused on training, particularly in de-escalation techniques—helping reduce use-of-force incidents. The department has earned recognition from the Ohio Attorney General’s Office, including praise for scenario-based training led by Officer Rex Young.
Training also extends to specialized situations, like grain bin rescues, ensuring teams are prepared for a wide range of emergencies.
Looking Ahead to Spring Events
As the city moves into spring, several events are on the horizon. A tire recycling event will take place at Ariel Foundation Park, along with the Washington Forum on March 31, featuring speakers from multiple levels of government.
Families can also look forward to the Joy and Jerry Klinger Easter Egg Hunt at Hiawatha Park, along with increased activity across local parks. Starr also reminded drivers to stay alert for cyclists as warmer weather returns.
A Final Thought
When asked how the community can support city leadership, Starr emphasized the need for wisdom and good stewardship. As Mount Vernon continues to grow and address challenges, he reflected on the importance of making thoughtful decisions that will benefit future generations.
Click HERE to keep up with the City of Mount Vernon!
There’s something special happening in Knox County right now, and it centers around the stories that shape the community. Recently, Eric Brown from WNZR spoke with Olivia Toth from the Knox County Convention and Visitors Bureau about a project designed to preserve those stories for generations to come.
The Visitors Bureau, working alongside the local library, is creating an audio time capsule and inviting residents to contribute their own experiences and memories. It’s an opportunity for people across Knox County to share moments that reflect how the area has grown and changed over time. The plan is to collect these stories throughout the year and eventually turn them into a book or presentation that will be archived in the library. It’s a simple idea with a lasting impact—giving future generations a chance to hear directly from the people who lived it.
Some of the stories already collected highlight just how meaningful this effort can be. They touch on changes within the community, memories connected to national conflicts, and local achievements that have helped shape Knox County’s identity. Together, they paint a picture of a community that continues to evolve while staying rooted in its history.
This focus on storytelling comes at a meaningful time, as Knox County prepares to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary. Throughout the year, there will be parades, picnics, and a variety of events designed to bring people together. The state of Ohio is also introducing themed celebrations, connecting local communities to the broader national milestone. One event already drawing attention is a showing of Bye Bye Birdy at Ariel-Foundation Park on July 26 as part of the “Ohio Goes to the Movies” initiative, offering a fun way for families and friends to gather and celebrate.
At the same time, the Visitors Bureau is helping people experience Knox County in new ways. This year’s county guide, titled the “New Adventures Guide,” takes a fresh approach by removing advertisements and focusing entirely on content. Instead of ads, readers will find stories, interviews, and features that highlight the people and places that make the county unique. The goal is to not only inform but also inspire both residents and visitors to explore more deeply.
Even those who have lived in Knox County for years may be surprised by what they haven’t discovered yet. There’s a strong emphasis on showcasing lesser-known attractions—the kinds of places that might not always get the spotlight but are well worth a visit. To make exploring easier, digital trail passes have been introduced, offering curated experiences across the area. One of the newest additions is the Knox County Coffee Trail, which features seven different stops and gives people a fun, interactive way to explore local coffee spots.
All of these efforts—from collecting personal stories to creating new ways to explore—are about strengthening the connection people have to Knox County. Whether it’s sharing a memory, attending a community event, or discovering a hidden gem, there are more ways than ever to be part of what makes this area special.
Click HERE to learn more about the Knox County CVB!
WNZR’s Eric Brown recently sat down with Brittany Coon, Public Outreach Manager for the Knox County Board of Developmental Disabilities, to talk about something important happening this month—and right here in our community.
March is Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, a nationwide observance that dates back to 1987 when President Ronald Reagan first established it. The goal is simple but powerful: to promote opportunities for individuals with developmental disabilities to reach their full potential.
Brittany explains that developmental disabilities can include a wide range of conditions, such as autism, cerebral palsy, ADHD, and Down syndrome, along with other physical, learning, or behavioral challenges. But here in Knox County, the focus isn’t just on definitions—it’s on inclusion. She describes the community as one where people of all abilities can truly live, work, and grow together.
That spirit of inclusion will be front and center at a special event tonight. At 6 p.m., Ariel Arena on the campus of Mount Vernon Nazarene University will host a Special Olympics basketball game featuring the Knox County Eagles. The evening will also include cheerleaders and a lineup of local community leaders joining in the fun.
The event is made possible through partnerships with MVNU and community supporters like Paul McNeil, and it brings together a wide range of familiar local faces—from healthcare and law enforcement to business and public service. It’s shaping up to be a high-energy, meaningful night centered on connection and support.
As Brittany shared during the conversation, Special Olympics is about much more than sports. It creates a sense of belonging—not only for the athletes, but for everyone involved. Through competition and teamwork, athletes build physical fitness, leadership skills, and confidence, while also forming lasting relationships.
Events like tonight’s game also serve another important purpose: they create an easy entry point for the broader community. For many people, it may be their first time attending a Special Olympics event or interacting with individuals with developmental disabilities. That exposure helps build understanding, break down barriers, and strengthen the entire community.
Eric and Brittany also talked about what support looks like beyond just one month or one event. Brittany emphasized that awareness is only the beginning—what really matters is action. That can mean listening, advocating for accessibility, supporting inclusive workplaces, volunteering, and making a conscious effort to include others in everyday life, whether at work, community events, or places of worship.
She encourages everyone to come out to the game, not just for the fun of it, but for what it represents. Showing up sends a powerful message to the athletes that their community is behind them.
The game tips off at 6 p.m. at Ariel Arena, and admission is free, making it an easy way for families and community members to get involved and be part of something meaningful.
Click HERE to learn more about the Knox County DD!
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!
United Way of Knox County Executive Director Katie Ellis sat down with WNZR’s Marcy Rinehart to address the organization’s current challenges and future plans, including staffing reductions, continued programs, and upcoming community initiatives.
Ellis explained that the nonprofit recently made the difficult decision to reduce staff as part of broader efforts to address economic pressures. Like many organizations, the United Way has faced financial strain and needed to make spending adjustments. While the cuts were unfortunate, Ellis emphasized that they were necessary to ensure the organization’s long-term sustainability.
Despite the changes, Ellis reassured the community that the United Way’s core programs will continue. In fact, new partners have stepped forward to help support several initiatives, ensuring that services remain available to local residents.
One program that has already seen strong participation this year is the organization’s free tax preparation service. During walk-in days, volunteers and staff have worked long hours assisting residents with filing returns, completing more than 150 tax filings so far. Ellis encouraged anyone interested in receiving free tax assistance to visit the United Way’s website at uwayknox.org, where a pop-up allows residents to submit their information and get started.
The organization is also continuing to expand its community presence from its new headquarters at 305 East High Street in Mount Vernon. Ellis said the building provides additional opportunities to increase services and support for the community.
She also addressed recent rumors suggesting a potential merger between the United Way organizations in Knox and neighboring Licking County. Ellis clarified that there are no plans for such a merger and that the Knox County organization remains focused on serving its local community.
Looking ahead, the United Way is preparing to celebrate its 75th anniversary, a milestone that will include special campaigns and events throughout the year. Ellis said 2026 will also feature expanded initiatives, including work with the Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library and other community programs.
One of the next opportunities for the public to connect with the organization will be its annual meeting on March 17 from 4:30–5:30 p.m. at the Ramser 4‑H Activity Center. The meeting is open to the community and will include a recap of 2025 accomplishments as well as a look at the organization’s future plans.
Another major focus is the upcoming grant cycle. Ellis said the United Way plans to allocate more than $500,000 to 21 programs across Knox County, supporting initiatives in education, health care, financial stability, and other vital services.
Volunteers remain a cornerstone of the organization’s mission. Ellis emphasized that community involvement is critical to meeting local needs and encouraged residents to get involved. Those interested in volunteering can contact the organization by emailing liveunited@uwayknox.org
Ellis summed up the mission simply: the United Way exists because of the community and for the community—and its work depends on people coming together to support one another.
Click HERE to find out more about the United Way of Knox County!
Rise and Shine 