United Way exceeded fundraising goal

The St. Joseph County United Way raised more than $812,000 for its 2015 fundraising campaign.
During Tuesday’s annual Victory Celebration event, the final tally was announced and exceeded the 12-month goal of $785,000.
Staged inside Immaculate Conception School’s gymnasium, the event was an occasion to recognize the generosity of individuals and local businesses, according to St. Joseph County United Way Executive Director Kelly Hostetler.
Hostetler, who has led the agency since its founding almost 17 years ago, said the $812,596 will be dispersed to 42 area recipients.
With more than $92,400, American Axle was the county’s leading company in terms of the amount raised for the 2015 campaign. The company last year contributed $71,558.
Sturgis resident Vicky Folkers, a Sturgis Public Schools employee, was the winner of a raffle for a 28-inch snow blower.
Meanwhile, Nottawa Township residents Mark and Karin Zona were announced as honorary chairs of the 2016 campaign.