Story By Mary Bailey

It was a sea of grey t-shirts and big smiles Tuesday morning at Sand Mountain Park and Amphitheatre for the United Way of Marshall County’s 28th Day of Caring and campaign kickoff breakfast.

Close to 500 community members gathered for breakfast and listened as the new goal for 2026 was revealed.

Cade Smith, United Way Campaign Chairman, announced to the eager crowd that the 2026 fundraising goal was set at $765,000.

“Our pacesetter companies who have started already started fundraising have generated more than $355,000 towards our goal, which is 47% of this year’s total,” Smith said during the breakfast. “We are already off to a great start.”

Carrie Thomas, who stepped down as the Executive Director of the Marshall County United Way after a decade earlier this year, briefly spoke. 

“I have had the privilege of having a front row seat to seeing the generosity in the community,” Thomas said. “To be able to witness the incredible programs and agencies and to be able to see the amazing impact that you all have made and changed the lives in Marshall County. Thank you again, I know United Way is in great hands and I look forward to seeing what your new Director Erica Martin is going to do.”

Tricia Hopper executive director of the Marshall County Guardian Program (GAP) was the special guest speaker for the breakfast.  

We are very thankful to all of you out here that donate to United Way. Without you GAP would not exist without your donations,” Hopper spoke. “It also offers us the opportunity for our community partners to heard, to be seen. I have been on many, many visits during the campaign with Carrie (Thomas) and spoke about GAP. It’s the best kept secret in Marshall county.”

The new Executive Director of Marshall County United Way, Erica Martin, was the next to speak before the volunteers went on their day of meeting needs across the community.

“As I know I have major shoes to fill and it is my honor and privilege to be where with you today and be standing on this stage,” Martin said. “I want to welcome you all to our annual Day of Caring and as we know it’s not just another day on the calendar; it’s a day of coming together and to make a positive impact in our community.” 

This year there were 48 companies across the community who adopted 100 different service projects, and 23 companies who participated in a “casual day” wearing this year’s new United Way t-shirts. 

During the breakfast Taylor Burns, a United Way Loaned Executive from Paragon, delivered the invocation. Girl Scout Troop #22238 led the Pledge of Allegiance, and Jessica Knott, from partner agency Shepherd’s Cove Hospice, sang the National Anthem.

For more information on Marshall County United Way visit www.unitedwaymarshall.org.