Monadnock United Way Kicks Off "Our Monadnock, Our Impact" Campaign with a Strong Start
Keene, NH – Monadnock United Way (MUW) launched its “Our Monadnock, Our Impact” Campaign at an inspiring kickoff event on the morning of Tuesday, September 16 at Heberton Hall. With a goal of raising $1,519,000 to support critical initiatives in the region, the campaign has already made significant progress, raising $460,000 to date.
The event, sponsored by Fenton Family Dealerships, brought together community leaders and supporters to highlight MUW’s pivotal role in strengthening the Monadnock Region. Campaign Co-Chairs, Tom Julius of the Monadnock Interfaith Project and Ashley Elliott, Board Chair of Rise for baby and family, opened the morning with heartfelt remarks about the campaign’s potential.
“As we work together, we are building a Monadnock region where everyone can thrive,” said Ashley Elliott. “Let’s keep that momentum going.”
Her words echoed the spirit of collaboration that the event sought to inspire, as attendees were reminded of the shared commitment to a stronger, more vibrant community.
A highlight of the morning was the presentation of the prestigious Ken Jue Award, given to JoAnn Fenton for her outstanding dedication and contributions to the region. The award was presented by her son, Donovan Fenton, NH State Senator and Vice President of Fenton Family Dealerships, who spoke warmly of his mother’s lifelong commitment to service.
“My friends and I jokingly call her St. JoAnn. If you’re in need, she’s there helping you. She’s out there volunteering. You have to lead from the front, and if you know my mom, she’s always leading from the front.,” said Donovan Fenton.
The event also featured a dynamic panel discussion on MUW's efforts to address workforce development in the childcare sector, highlighting the vital role of community partnerships. As the region faces increasing demand for skilled childcare professionals, the panelists discussed innovative ways they have collaborated across education, business, and nonprofit sectors to strengthen the workforce pipeline. MUW is committed to supporting initiatives that ensure sustainable growth and provide accessible training opportunities for high school students, individuals considering a career in childcare, and professionals seeking advancement.
Panelists included:
Stephanie Latini, Internship and Business Outreach Manager, Monadnock United Way
Cristine Trayner, Workforce Development Strategist
Deirdre McPartlin, Director of the Keene State College Child Development Center
Roberta Royce, Executive Director of the Winchester Learning Center
Jen Antosiewicz, Careers in Education Instructor at the Cheshire Career Center, Keene High School
Lauren French, Keene High School Student and Child Development Associate recipient
Samantha Hill, Director of the Monadnock Youth Coalition at the Keene Family YMCA
Ariana Wilbur, Keene High School Student and Monadnock Region Afterschool Partnership Program intern
Richard Towne, Career & Technical Education Director at Cheshire Career Center, Keene High School
Tom Julius, General Campaign Co-Chair, reflected on the broader impact of United Way’s work: “Across generations, the United Way represents what community is all about. We belong to each other, our wellbeing is linked to the wellbeing of our neighbors—whether they are younger, older, or somewhere in between. It’s not just about programs — it’s about people. Today, we celebrate the impact of that collective effort and the people who make it happen.”
The “Our Monadnock, Our Impact” Campaign will continue until December 31, with MUW aiming to meet its goal of $1,519,000 to support its wide-ranging community initiatives. Already, the campaign’s early success is a testament to the deep commitment of local supporters to advancing MUW’s mission.
For more information about Monadnock United Way and to contribute to the “Our Monadnock, Our Impact” Campaign, please visit www.muw.org.
About Monadnock United Way
Monadnock United Way (MUW) is a nonprofit organization that brings people and resources together to improve the lives of individuals and families in the Monadnock region. By focusing on children, education and financial stability, MUW partners with local organizations and agencies to create lasting change in the community.