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United Way kicks off campaign, thanks supporters

Tyler Gotowka, left, of Lawley Insurance received recognition from the United Way.

The United Way has officially launched its 2019 fundraising campaign, and took the opportunity to recognize some very special organizations and individuals making a difference in our community while doing it.

The United Way Fall Celebration took place in the recently completed pavilion at Liberty Vineyards and Winery in Sheridan, back-dropped by the grape vines and crisp autumn evening.

During his remarks United Way Executive Director Adam Dolce commented, “Does it get anymore Northern Chautauqua than a party in a grape vineyard, around a warm fire.” while welcoming guests and honorees.

Three community MVPs were recognized during the event, all making significant contributions to the community and people of the area, and all in very different ways. The first to be recognized was The Chautauqua Center.

Since its beginning The Chautauqua Center has been ensuring patients of all backgrounds and income levels have quick and convenient access to quality medical services.

While it began with basic medical services, it has expanded and evolved to a full service, comprehensive medical provider, offering a wide range of services and focused on treating the whole patient. Similar to the move they made in Jamestown, the North County will be seeing a dedicated facility in the not too distant future.

Mike Pease, chief executive officer of The Chautauqua Center, and Alicia Ekstrom, were on hand to accept the award.

The second MVP was acknowledged for their long standing commitment and dedication to the community. The company and the staff in the facility were acknowledged for consistently going above and beyond to meet the needs for not only our four legged friends, but our neighbors too. Dolce cited that Nestle Purina staff and the company have contributed more than a million dollars to the United Way of Northern Chautauqua County in a little over 20 years. A large team was on hand to represent the company and staff from the facility, anchored by Factory Manager Will Steiner.

The third award, the individual award, was given to Tyler Gotowka of Lawley Insurance. Gotowka was chosen due to his personal service and dedication to community efforts. He has served on numerous boards, including that of the United Way of Northern Chautauqua County. He has organized the United Way golf tournament the last two years and set fundraising records for the event, he currently sits on the advisory council for the Boys and Girls Club collaborative, and helped to organize a special committee focused on childcare issues that has submitted a proposal to expand childcare options and address affordability for working families. When announcing the selection Dolce said, “I don’t need notes for the next one. I have had the pleasure of working alongside this person and can say that his love for the community is genuine, and he has proven that he will always go above and beyond to help others.”

In addition to presenting awards the event also served as an opportunity to kick off the United Way of Northern Chautauqua County’s annual fundraising campaign. To help attendees see what United Way is doing in our region, several community partners were on-hand to discuss funding and how their programs utilize United Way support while providing assistance. The United Way of Northern Chautauqua County empowers our community by focusing on improving the education, health and financial stability of every person.

United Way donor dollars are invested in programs that demonstrate their ability to achieve outcomes and produce results that help to address some of our community’s critical needs. In 2018 the United Way and its community partners impacted more than 16,000 lives in Northern Chautauqua County. All money raised during the annual general campaign will be utilized and invested locally to ensure its impact on those around us.

To learn more about the United Way of Northern Chautauqua County, its community partners, and programs please visit www.unitedwayncc.org. Those wishing to contribute to the annual campaign can inquire with their employer about a workplace campaign, or visit the website to make a one time or recurring donation.

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