DOTHAN, Ala. — Wiregrass United Way officially launched its 2026 fundraising campaign Friday morning by announcing a record-breaking goal of $3 million, the largest campaign goal in the organization’s history.
According to Wiregrass United Way, the announcement was made during the annual Pacesetter Kickoff at the Wiregrass Rehabilitation Center by Overall Campaign Chair John Brown.
“The $3 million goal represents more than a number,” Brown said. “It represents hope for thousands of individuals and families throughout the Wiregrass who rely on our partner agencies every day. Our community has consistently stepped up to meet every challenge, and I believe we are ready to make history once again.”
The organization also announced a $450,000 Wiregrass Foundation Challenge Pledge. Wiregrass Foundation President Troy Fountain said the foundation will contribute the additional funds once the campaign reaches its $3 million goal, increasing the campaign’s total impact to $3.45 million.
“The Wiregrass Foundation has been an extraordinary partner in strengthening our communities,” said Wiregrass United Way CEO Walter Hill. “Their Challenge Pledge inspires generosity throughout the region and encourages every donor to be part of something even bigger. We are deeply grateful for their continued investment in the people of the Wiregrass.”
The kickoff also included remarks from Angie Wakefield, chair of the Wiregrass United Way Board of Trustees, and the debut of the organization’s 2026 campaign video.
Following the program, more than 300 volunteers packaged 60,000 meals for the Wiregrass Area Food Bank. The meals will be distributed to families facing food insecurity across the six-county region. The meal-packing project was sponsored by All In Credit Union as part of its 60th anniversary celebration.
Wiregrass United Way supports programs focused on education, financial stability and health across Barbour, Coffee, Dale, Geneva, Henry and Houston counties through investments in 38 local partner agencies.
“The campaign begins with every volunteer, every workplace campaign, every corporate partner, and every individual who chooses to invest in our community,” Hill said. “Together, we have an opportunity to achieve something unprecedented. A $3 million campaign will allow us to continue meeting today’s needs while building a stronger tomorrow for the Wiregrass.”
Pacesetter companies will now begin employee giving campaigns across the region, leading into the community-wide fundraising campaign that will continue through the fall.
