RICHMOND HILL, Ga. — United Way of the Coastal Empire kicked off its 2026 campaign for Bryan, Liberty and Long counties on Tuesday at the Richmond
Hill City Center, where nearly 150 community leaders gathered to celebrate the start of this year’s fundraising efforts.

The 2026 theme, “Join the Journey”, highlights our community’s path toward ensuring that every individual and family in the region has the opportunity to thrive by strengthening support for United Way’s Community Fund.

“Bryan County is experiencing tremendous growth, and with that growth comes both opportunity and responsibility,” said Chris Benson, United Way Bryan County Advisory Board chair and city administrator for the City of Pembroke. “United
Way’s mission is to ensure that every community we serve is connected to that growth, so all of our neighbors can access opportunity and share in the benefits of a stronger future.”

“Here in Liberty County, we have a long and proud history with United Way,” said Danny Creasy, United Way Liberty and Long County Advisory Board chair and vice president and branch manager with Ameris Bank. “Just last year, Long County officially became one of United Way’s partner counties. It’s been exciting to see the energy and momentum this community has brought to the table, joining us in this movement to lift lives and strengthen communities.”

In past years, United Way has announced larger fundraising goals that reported all total giving including grants, disaster relief, restricted giving and donations directed to specific causes. This year, the campaign will be laser-focused on increasing support for the Community Fund because it powers United Way’s mission critical work. For the first time in the organization’s history, United Way introduced a dedicated Community Fund goal of $5.2 million that will be reinvested across our five-county
region.

Twelve pacesetter businesses launched early employee giving campaigns, collectively committing $809,487 toward the goal. Participating businesses include BankSouth, Chatham Steel Corporation, Colonial Group Inc., Critz Auto Group, Dixie Plywood and Lumber Company, Effingham County Board of Education, Reiser & Reiser LLC, Senior Citizens Inc., Shaw Industries, Sterling Seacrest Pritchard Inc., Thomas & Hutton, and United Way of the Coastal Empire.

“I’ve now been in this role for just over a year, and during this time, what’s stood out most to me is the heart of this community,” shared Kimberly Waller, president and CEO of United Way of the Coastal
Empire. “Families are working tirelessly to overcome incredible challenges. Local leaders are driving bold, life-changing work every day. And community supporters like you continue to rise to the occasion, lighting the way with your generosity and unwavering
belief in what’s possible.”

In addition to launching the campaign, United Way presented several awards to honor outstanding volunteers.

The Jimmy Burnsed Community Spirit Award, which honors individuals in Bryan County who embody the spirit of giving, service and community leadership, was presented to Melodie
Lane for her role in developing the Backpacks of Love program, which addresses food insecurity among local students.

The James “Bobby” Ryon Community Spirit Award, recognizing individuals in Liberty County who exemplify generosity, service and a deep commitment to their community, was awarded to Brooke T. Smith for her tireless support of United Way’s Read United program and various other cause-related events in Liberty County.

The Bryan, Liberty and Long County kickoff event was sponsored by EOM, SNF Holding Company, VyStar Credit Union and the Richmond Hill City Center.

To donate or learn more about United Way of the Coastal Empire’s work, visit uwce.org.