The United Way of the Coalfield hosted its first Award Celebration at Madisonville Community College on Thursday morning, honoring partners and individuals who have significantly impacted Caldwell, Hopkins, and Muhlenberg counties.
Executive Director Ashley Alexander welcomed attendees and expressed her excitement about the United Way’s achievements over the past year.
click to download audioDr. Ann Love of Madisonville Community College presented gold, silver, and bronze awards to businesses, along with Community Impact Awards to individuals in each county served by the United Way of the Coalfield. In Hopkins County, Peyton Adams, a retired environmental specialist, and active community member known for always being prepared, received the award.
click to download audioCommunity Impact Awards were also presented to Larry Curling in Caldwell County and Debbie Gorham in Muhlenberg County.
According to Tanner Weir of GE Aerospace and United Way’s Child Committee, the nonprofit received a $2 million HUD grant in 2023 to build childcare facilities in Hopkins and Muhlenberg counties to address gaps in childcare availability for those working extended hours and the lack of care for infants. However, due to funding shortfalls, he said the project will initially focus on Hopkins County, with plans to expand to Muhlenberg County later.
Weir said he was excited to announce a partnership with the Hopkins County Family YMCA, which will donate land for the project and manage its daily operations once it’s operational.
click to download audioMadisonville Mayor Kevin Cotton, a former United Way president, praised the organization’s growth and community involvement. He highlighted United Way’s efforts to address the community’s childcare needs, anticipating that over 1,000 slots will be required in the coming years due to growth.
click to download audioThe Award Celebration was held at the Steve Beshear Center for Postsecondary Education on the MCC campus.
WFMW’s News Edge will have more from the event in the coming days.
