UNITED WAY PATRON DIVISION TO HOLD ONE-DAY BLITZ

The Area Wide United Way's patron division holds the responsibility for the campaign's final big thrust.

The United Way's annual campaign officially kicks off with a luncheon Sept. 4. The fund-raising goal is $470,000.

Headed this year by Don Sherwood and Robyn Hosp, the patron division will hold a one-day blitz Sept. 17 to talk with small business people, new business people and individuals who have given to United Way in the past.

"We found that it works better that way," Hosp said. "We try to get all the calls made that one day. People expect us that day."

Sherwood said, "What we do is try to go out for a final big push before the campaign starts to wind down."

Sherwood, who has worked at KFVS-TV for the past 40 years, has been involved in United Way for seven years. He has served on the board of directors and last year was the campaign communication chairman.

"I've always been involved in some sort of volunteer service," Sherwood said. "After becoming involved in United Way, I saw that this was one agency that helped so many. I felt that what little time I had to offer could be best used right here with the United Way."

Hosp has been involved in the United Way the past four years. Each year she has worked in the patron division.

"This is something I'm real proud to be a part of," she said.

The patron division, while one of the smaller divisions, almost always meets its goals.

"It's exciting to see a community come together," she said. "I really see that in Jackson."

Hosp got involved with United Way by helping her husband, Ken, who is chairman of the employee division this year.

"I guess, for both of us, our work with United Way springs from wanting to help others," Hosp said. "I think the United Way is a wonderful organization."