United Way of Fostoria launches campaign

FOSTORIA — The United Way of Fostoria launched its 2025 campaign this week, raising funds locally to ensure that social services are available to city residents and supporting needs in health, education, financial stability and the community safety net."Some of these services wouldn't exist without United Way," United Way of Fostoria Executive Director Evelyn Marker was quoted as saying in a news release. "Others are made stronger because of our community's generosity."All funds donated to the United Way of Fostoria remain in the city, supporting local programs with no deductions for administrative or campaign expenses, according to Marker.The release said that the local United Way this year compiled its first "Outcomes Report," a tool designed to measure the impact of its agency partners. The report tracks each time an individual or family receives help — referred to as a "touch" — whether through emergency shelter, financial assistance, youth programs, senior activities or long-term life skills training.A total of more than 17,000 touches were delivered last year, the release said.Ford Mennel, president and chief executive officer of the Mennel Milling Company, this year is volunteering as general chairman of the fundraising campaign."As a third-generation donor and business leader, I'm proud to continue supporting United Way's vital role in advancing Fostoria's growth," Mennel was quoted as saying in the news release. "By strengthening local families and community programs, we're investing in the people who make Fostoria stronger and creating opportunities for generations to come."Company employee campaigns have launched at ProMedica Fostoria Community Hospital, Kaubisch Memorial Public Library, Inland Tarp, Morgan Advanced Materials, the Geary Family YMCA and Superior Credit Union, the news release said. The campaign will continue through the end of the year.Each year, the campaign raises approximately $200,000. More than 60% comes from local companies, with the remainder contributed by individual donors and small businesses, the release said.For more information about the local United Way's 16 agency partners and their services and to make an online donation, visit website www.unitedwayoffostoria.org.For information about launching a workplace campaign, contact Marker by emailing to emarker@uwfostoria.org.