Oneida County Employees Donate More Than $20,000 to United Way

UTICA – Employees of Oneida County donated $21,062.50 to the 2017 fundraising campaign of the United Way, County Executive Anthony J. Picente Jr. announced Wednesday.

County employees raised the money by a number of means including payroll deductions, one-time contributions, dress down days, raffles and a bake sale.

“I am continually impressed by the generosity of our county employees and proud of the lengths they will go to for the betterment of this community,” Picente said. “This $21,000 raised for the United Way is further proof of their giving spirit and will make a real difference for many of our residents.”

The county’s 2017 United Way fundraising efforts were overseen by a 10-person committee that was comprised of June Hanrahan, Judy Ingalls, Valerie Laymon, Sherri LaSalle, Nancy Nicholl, Phyllis Ricco, Kathy Scalise, Jackie St. Thomas, John P. Talerico and Donna Tyler.

“The Oneida County Campaign Committee holds an annual basket raffle & bake sale, which is supported by every department of Oneida County,” said Sherri LaSalle, co-chairperson of the Oneida County United Way Committee. “Our event has always been a success and our employees always enjoy the day. It is very rewarding to know all of the monies raised will go to helping those less fortunate in our community. “

The donations will go toward supporting initiatives of the United Way of the Valley and Greater Utica Area, as well of those of the United Way of Rome and Western Oneida County. The contributions will benefit such things as services and education regarding obesity, mental health, STDs, bullying, pregnancy prevention and drug abuse, and efforts to keep students in school and seniors in their homes.

“Thank you, Oneida County employees, for your generosity in supporting this year’s annual United Way fundraising campaign,” said United Way Executive Director Brenda Episcopo. “Your donations made to United Way help build a better life for everyone in our community. Giving comes in many forms – whether you are a donor, a volunteer, or both, thank you for taking an active role in making our community a healthy, vibrant place to live and work.” 

Front Row (L-R): Carli Sterling, United Way Campaign Coordinator; June Hanrahan, Oneida County United Way Committee; Jackie St. Thomas, Oneida County United Way Committee; Oneida County Executive Anthony J. Picente Jr.; United Way Executive Director Brenda Episcopo; Judy Ingalls, Oneida County United Way Committee.

Back Row (L-R): Valarie Laymon, Oneida County United Way Committee; Nancy Nicholl, Oneida County United Way Committee; Sherri LaSalle, Oneida County United Way Committee; John P. Talerico, Oneida County United Way Committee; Enesa Sabanagic, United Way & CNY Labor Council; and Kristyn Bucciero, United Way Director of Development.