The annual awards meeting and banquet for United Way of Northeast Georgia was a time to thank everyone who worked extremely hard to keep agency funding stable in a particularly challenging economy.

United Way of Northeast Georgia President and Chief Professional Officer Rubielen Norris summarized the year’s accomplishments and pointed out some of the shining stars of the campaign.

Norris stated in her annual report, "The 2009 goal of $2,200,000 looked huge, but it gave us the opportunity to tell the community the needs of individuals and agencies. They have listened and responded."

The overall campaign fell just short of goal at $2,152,833 but four counties, including Barrow, reached their goals. Barrow’s goal was $210,000 and the total raised was $219,141.

The County Volunteer of the Year for 2009 was Susan Litchford, who has been active in United Way since she and her husband moved to Barrow County in 2002. She has served on the Allocations Panel for several years, been a member of the Advisory Board and served as co-chair of the campaign for Barrow County this year.

Barrow County Loaned Executives who were recognized included Lisa Leighton of Barrow County Schools, Courtney McVey from The Tree House, Derek Hutchens from the Boys & Girls Club of Winder-Barrow and Gina McDonald from Project ADAM.