Over a career in broadcast journalism spanning nearly two decades, Jennifer Hayes has seen first-hand the needs of the community and just how much of an impact local United Ways have in meeting those needs.

Hayes shared some of her experiences with those attending a special luncheon on Wednesday to kick off the United Way of Elizabethton/Carter County’s 2017 fundraising campaign.

Hayes is a broadcast journalist with WXBQ 96.9 radio station.

“She has seen the heartbreak and the joy of every community in the Tri-Cities. She has seen utter devastation and compounded joy,” UWECC Community Impact Coordinator Crystal Carter said as she introduced Hayes to those in attendance.

A native of Bluff City, Hayes has seen changes throughout the region as the communities have grown over the years. And, with that growth, comes an increase in needs for those in the community, she said.

Covering news around the Tri-Cities has given Hayes a sort of behind the scenes look at needs facing each community. It has also given her a front-row seat to see local United Way organizations and their community partner agencies at work.

Hayes said she frequently receives calls through her work from people looking for assistance for a variety of issues — whether it’s seeking help for an elderly relative or aid in finding programs for children.

“My first call is always a local United Way director because I know they will help,” Hayes said.

United Way works to bring together people with organizations providing services and through their network of partner agencies they can assist individuals finding the type of program they need.

“The United Way has never let me down,” Hayes said. “The United Way has never let our listeners down. The United Way has never let our community down.

“I am so proud to live United.”

This year, the goal for 2017 United Way of Elizabethton/Carter County is $125,000. All of the funds raised will stay here to support service organizations providing programs for individuals in Elizabethton and Carter County.

Last year was the first time in several years the UWECC met their annual campaign goal and the agency is hoping to build on that success for the coming year. So far, the agency has already raised 14 percent of total goal in donations and pledges.

Jon Hartman, Director of Planning and Economic Development for the City of Elizabethton, is serving as the Campaign Chair this year and was instrumental in developing this year’s theme “Give Me $5.”

“Often, when we hear requests for donations, we think we need to give $20, $30, or $40 to make a difference, but the reality is that if everyone gives a little it all adds up to a lot,” Hartman said. “The Give Me $5 initiative focuses on that concept.”

“We’re asking everyone in Carter County over the age of 18 to simply give $5 every month for one year to the United Way,” Hartman continued. “If everyone committed to this small amount, our campaign could be completed in a matter of a week or even a day! Your $5 match with everyone else’s can change the lives for many people and transform our community.”

For more information about the United Way of Elizabethton/Carter County or its community partner agencies, visit their website at www.uwayecc.org, email them at director@uwayecc.org or call 423-543-6975.