United Way of Knox County Holds Annual Meeting

The United Way of Knox County held its annual meeting on March 6, 2025, where
Executive Director Katie Ellis shared key achievements and the ongoing impact of the
organization’s programs. The meeting highlighted the efforts of United Way’s team and
its partner agencies, which are creating lasting change in the community.

Among the key updates, Ellis highlighted the VITA Tax Program, which filed 527
returns, including 298 for senior citizens, returning over $600,000 to Knox County
residents. The All Kids Bike program, introduced in 2024, raised $36,000 in its first year,
expanded to 7 schools and helped 705 children learn to cycle safely.

Ellis also spotlighted the growth of Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, which now serves
5,331 children and has delivered 27,039 books, with a 2% increase in enrollment.
Additionally, the After School Tutoring Program continues to provide academic support
to local students. And ROX (Ruling Our eXperiences) trained its first group of facilitators
at East Knox Schools in 2024, empowering young girls with leadership skills.

In a governance update, 2024 Board Chair Brian Bell introduced Sam Filkins as the
nominee for Board Chair, a motion passed unanimously. Other board nominations
approved included Wendi Fowler as Treasurer, Marcy Rinehart for an additional year of
service, Jason Snively for a second term, and Noel Alden, Lyndsey Krownapple, and
Christopher Hope as new board members.

Executive Director Katie Ellis expressed gratitude to the community, stating, “First, I
would like to thank everyone who came to celebrate with us at the annual meeting. Any
acknowledgment of United Way’s work is really a nod to all of Knox County –
community members fund our efforts, work at partner agencies, and volunteer to create
positive change. I’d also like to recognize our incredible staff and thank the United Way
board of directors for their support, especially in my first year as executive director. We
look forward to building a more resilient community together.”

United Way has raised $926,423 toward its 2024 campaign goal of $1,000,000, with just
two weeks left to donate. The organization encourages the community to help reach the
goal and continue supporting vital programs in the coming year.

For more information about the United Way of Knox County, its programs, or to donate,
visit https://www.uwayknox.org/.