DOTHAN, Ala. (WDNews) – United Way of the Wiregrass kicked off its 2025 campaign Thursday with a bus tour of six Wiregrass counties, setting a goal of raising $2.96 million to support programs across the region. So far, the organization has raised more than $1.69 million — nearly 50% of the goal — since the campaign began Aug. 1.
Holly Smith, a member of the board of trustees, told attendees that this year’s campaign theme is represented by the color blue, symbolizing optimism and growth. “Black has been what we’ve built our organization on for many years, but this year blue represents energy, opportunity and endless growth,” Smith said.
Campaign Chair Ross Bonura said he is confident the Wiregrass will meet the $2.96 million goal by year’s end. “Since August 1, our pacesetter campaigns have already helped us raise nearly half of our goal, and we still have many campaigns to go,” Bonura said. “We touch all six counties in the Wiregrass, and the community continues to come out and support us. If your employer doesn’t run a campaign, you can still give directly to United Way — every dollar makes an impact.”
The campaign kickoff also featured the Dothan High School cheerleaders and the Ashford High School drumline, highlighting local school involvement and the unity in the Wiregrass area. In addition, Miss Alabama 2025 Emma Terry attended the event and praised United Way’s role in the region. “To be part of this organization that has such a lasting impact in this area and community truly has been an honor,” Terry said.
Organizers encouraged all companies to raise at least one dollar more than last year, saying that if each workplace meets or exceeds its previous totals, the overall goal will be reached. They also urged attendees to share photos from campaign events using the hashtag #WUWKickoff
“This campaign represents the largest team in the Wiregrass because it includes everyone from birth to death across six counties,” Walter Hill, CEO of Wiregrass United Way, said. “We need every person and every business to be part of it.”
