The United Way of Henry County and Martinsville launched its 2026-27 annual fundraising campaign with 120 volunteers and community members participating in its Day of Action on Sept. 18.
The campaign kickoff, held at the West Piedmont Higher Education Center, brought together representatives of local businesses and organizations for a day of community service.
Volunteers logged more than 500 hours of service through projects benefiting organizations throughout Martinsville and Henry County.
Projects included sorting clothing and preparing hygiene supplies at the Henry County Food Pantry, cleaning up portions of the Dick & Willie Trail, collecting food for the Patrick & Henry Community College Patriot Pantry and assisting with construction work for Fostering Champions.
Volunteers also painted at the Hairston Home for Adults, cleaned and disinfected toys at the Blue Ridge Regional Library in Martinsville and performed cleanup, beautification and administrative work at the Heritage Center & Museum.
Callie Hietala, vice president of United Way’s board of directors, said she “walked away from Day of Action feeling incredibly hopeful.”
“We live in a place where people understand the value of service and the role United Way plays in turning that spirit of service into meaningful action,” Hietala said.
“I would encourage anyone who wants to make a difference in the place they call home, anyone who believes in the power of service to lift others up, and anyone who believes that building a stronger community for all our citizens is something that requires our collective effort to get involved with United Way, whether through volunteering or supporting the annual campaign.”
United Way reported raising $175,313.62 toward its $500,000 campaign goal.
The campaign supports more than 25 local partners working to improve health, youth opportunities and financial stability in Henry County and Martinsville.
Fundraising will continue through Feb. 26, 2027.
Residents can contribute online at www.UnitedWayofHCM.org, participate in workplace payroll giving programs or mail pledges to P.O. Box 951, Martinsville, VA 24114.
For more information, contact Rebecca, workplace engagement and donor services coordinator, at 276-638-3946, ext. 110, or [email protected].
