The following article first appeared in The Parkersburg News & Sentinel on October 17th, 2026
The United Way Alliance of the MOV began its annual campaign for the 2026-2027 season. United Way also recognized its "Leadership Circle" donors at its annual Pacesetter Recognition event.
The campaign supports locally funded agencies as well as internal programming that is provided by United Way. Stacy DeCicco, executive director for the United Way, spoke on the challenge of fundraising and the impact to "fulfill the United Way mission," in a recent press release.
“Fundraising is vital to the success of any nonprofit, yet it is a really challenging task. So many agencies and individuals in our community count on this annual campaign; if we stumble and fall short, that stumble has a ripple effect. That’s a big responsibility to carry," she said.
Recently, the United Way hosted the annual Pacesetter Recognition event, an event that "highlights and thanks the donors who are members of the Pacesetter Giving Leadership Circle - those who give $500 or more annually to the campaign."
According to the release, DeCicco said, "Giving just under $10 a week allows someone to be recognized as a Pacesetter. It seems like a small sacrifice to make in a personal budget but the collective impact of that kind of giving is strong and resonating.”
Aaron Stone, Pacesetter co-chair, shared his thoughts on charitable giving.
"Participating in a local charity is the truest test of whether you are engaged in your own community or not. In a perfect world, there would be an abundance of giving and a shortage of needs. Our United Way Pacesetters are recognized for their devoted support to making the Mid-Ohio Valley a better place to live."
In the release, DeCicco shared the ways to participate in the organization’s campaign including; hosting workplace campaigns, individual giving, volunteer programs, and donation drives.
She said the best way to get involved is visiting the organization’s website at uwamov.com or emailing her at sdecicco@uwamov.com.
DeCicco said “There is a fit for everyone who wants to make a difference in our community. We welcome the conversation to help you find the best fit for you. What we do across the MOV is critical work and provides needed impact. We cannot do that alone; we can only continue this important work because of the support of donors like our Pacesetter givers. Every dollar matters; every dollar brings the change we all want to see. We are so thankful for a community that supports our mission and celebrates our work."