United Way of the Coastal Empire welcomed over 300 supporters to the 70th annual meeting and awards luncheon Thursday at the Armstrong Center. The program included the induction of new board members and recognition of community volunteers for their hard work and dedication.  

Carolyn Sanders of First Effingham Bank was elected to serve on the executive committee of the board of directors. She will chair the outreach services committee.

Outgoing Chairman of the Board Dr. Thomas Jones, president of Armstrong Atlantic State University, shared highlights of the organization’s 2007 accomplishments and details of the investments made in the four-county area. Dr. Jones bestowed the role of United Way’s chairman of the board to Mike Kemp, senior vice president, regional trust manager of Sea Island Bank.

Dale Critz Jr., president and general manager of Critz, Inc., was introduced as the 2008 campaign chairman.

United Way has been able to raise over $1 million dollars through the “Sugar Refinery Family Support Fund” to be used to help those affected by the disaster pay for medical supplies, utilities, mortgage or rent, food, transportation and other critical needs.