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Positively Caring: United Way’s Impact in 2025

by Kimberly Cobb-Ray J.D., United Way of Morgan County President/CEO 
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What I love most about Decatur is how people consistently care for one another. In 2025, I saw this every day. Families faced challenges, local organizations were stretched, and yet people never turned away. Volunteers dedicated their time, businesses found ways to contribute, and neighbors checked in on one another. 

United Way of Morgan County plays an important role in connecting all of these efforts. One of the ways we do that is through our 211 service, which provides a single point of contact for anyone needing help in the community. In 2025, thousands of Morgan County residents called or texted 211 to find food assistance, housing support, health resources, and crisis services. United Way ensures these connections happen quickly and efficiently, giving families, individuals, and seniors a reliable resource when they need it most. This instinct to step in and work together is what makes Decatur unique, and it is a privilege for United Way to support that culture of care. 

A Steady and Resilient Community

The heart of Decatur in 2025 was steady and resilient. Families and organizations faced challenges, yet the community remained engaged and committed. United Way focused on being a consistent presence that families and partner organizations could rely on. We connected residents to essential services through programs like 211 and coordinated volunteers to support nonprofits. 

The community demonstrates the power of collaboration and commitment. Families, volunteers, businesses, and organizations all leaned in to support one another. That quiet, reliable dedication shows that Decatur’s heart is strong, compassionate, and ready to face challenges together. 

Showing Up During a Time of Crisis

One moment that made me particularly proud was the response during the government shutdown. Families suddenly faced urgent needs for food and basic services, and the United Way immediately mobilized to help. Because of our strong partnerships with the Committee on Church Cooperation and the Salvation Army, we coordinated volunteers to ensure food distribution and essential services continued without interruption. More than 20 volunteers stepped up to make this possible. 

What made this especially meaningful was seeing how calm and focused the response was. Everyone worked together to stabilize families, support nonprofit partners, and ensure the people of Decatur did not face these challenges alone. Moments like this remind me why United Way exists: to connect resources, coordinate volunteers, and keep our community strong. 

Supporting Families and Students

In 2025, United Way focused on reducing stress for families and helping children start the school year prepared. Through Stuff the Bus, the community donated more than 6,000 school supply items, ensuring students across Morgan County had the tools they needed to succeed. Parents felt confident that their children were ready to learn, and students walked into classrooms prepared and excited

Early childhood literacy continued to be a major focus through the Dolly Parton Imagination Library. During the 2025 program year, 37,261 books were mailed to 3,066 children in Morgan County. These books became part of daily routines at home, helping children develop early literacy skills and giving families a consistent, meaningful way to support their children’s learning. 

In total, United Way supports 33 programs across 24 partner agencies, which allow nonprofits to provide these critical services to children, families, and the community. All this work is guided by United Way’s Bold Goals, which focuses on supporting successful children, empowering families, and fostering resilient communities. By coordinating resources, volunteers, and programs, we help ensure children can thrive and families have reliable support. 

Community Collaboration in Action

Day of Caring is a perfect example of community collaboration. In 2025, 120 volunteers completed 22 projects across Morgan County, contributing more than 700 volunteer hours. These projects helped nonprofits such as ARC, the Community Free Clinic, and Everyday Sunshine complete important work that staff could not always manage on their own. Volunteers painted, organized spaces, repaired equipment, and assisted with programs, allowing these organizations to focus on serving people in need.

Volunteers Making a Difference

Volunteers were a constant presence throughout 2025. Through our Kids Interested in Volunteering Service (KIVS) program, students ages 10 to 15 committed to weekly service during the summer, learning early that giving back is part of being an engaged community member. Adults also made a significant impact. Fifty-eight individuals throughout North Alabama earned recognition through the President’s Volunteer Service Award, contributing a total of 6,865 volunteer hours back into the communities they serve. 

These volunteers strengthened families, supported nonprofit partners, and allowed United Way to respond quickly to community needs. Their dedication reflects the heart of volunteerism and ensures that children, families, and organizations have the resources and support they need to thrive. 

A Tradition That Reflects the Best of Decatur

The 11th Annual 3M Turkey Trot perfectly reflects what makes Decatur special. In 2025, more than 500 participants joined the event, which has become a community tradition that brings families, volunteers, and businesses together. Beyond being a fun race, the Turkey Trot raises critical support for United Way programs across Morgan County. Volunteers guided participants, local businesses sponsored the event, and families came together to celebrate community and connection. This event demonstrates how United Way strengthens relationships, fosters engagement, and supports families and children in meaningful ways.

Looking Ahead

2025 showed that Decatur is a community that does not shy away from challenges. People volunteer, businesses contribute, and families support one another. United Way of Morgan County plays a central role in connecting resources, coordinating volunteers, and providing stability for children, families, and nonprofit partners. 

Our work is guided by our Bold Goals, which focus on supporting successful children, empowering families, and fostering resilient communities. By giving time, donating, or sharing support, everyone in Morgan County can help create a stronger, more connected, and caring community. Together, we ensure every child, family, and individual can thrive and that the community continues moving forward with resilience and hope.

Kimberly Cobb-Ray J.D.

United Way of Morgan County President/CEO 

Kimberly has 20+ years of experience in supporting key community/nonprofit programs. She is an out-of-the-box thinker who champions creative solutions to optimize programs, elevate productivity, and realize positive community outcomes. Kimberly received her Bachelor’s degree from Faulkner University and is also a graduate of the Birmingham School of Law. She is a community volunteer, on the board of various organizations, and was a member of the Leadership Montgomery Class XXIII. She is the proud mother of a new 6th grader.

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