It was good to see dedicated volunteers and staff members recognized at last week’s annual United Way of Kershaw County dinner. While there are many, many people who push together to make the United Way the superb organization that it is, a few special people were singled out for recognition. Dr. Frank Morgan, superintendent of the Kershaw County School District, received the Jake Watson Award, and Camden Deputy Fire Chief Phil Elliot was given the Anne Dallas Volunteer of the Year award. Other plaudits for volunteer efforts were given, and staff member Margaret Lawhorn was singled out for her 15 years of service to the organization.

There are many outstanding charitable organizations in Kershaw County, and the United Way does a yeoman’s job of pulling many of them into a bundle, allowing each to retain its own identity while combining fund-raising efforts for maximum efficiency. Under longtime president Donny Supplee, the organization and its staff members reach thousands of people in Kershaw County who are aided by a variety of different services offered by 17 different and diverse partner agencies. Additionally, there are nearly 20 other partnerships with various entities such as Kershaw County and the City of Camden.

Governed by a local board, the United Way has operated for many years without a taint of impropriety, offering much-needed services to those in need. Those who were recognized last week richly deserved their awards, and let us not forget that there are countless others who donate time, talents and money so the United Way can operate with maximum efficiency and compassion. It is truly a worthwhile organization.