The United Way of Hamblen County is seeking to blaze new trails and create excitement in the process.

New Executive Director Haley Fugate introduced a streamlined Pacesetter Luncheon Monday afternoon held at the Morristown Area Chamber of Commerce and catered by Redbud Deli, the luncheon brought together key partners who play a vital role in helping “get the campaign rolling” ahead of the organization’s official public kickoff, scheduled for September.

During the event, United Way Hamblen County announced its 2026 campaign goal of $1,479,000, reinforcing its commitment to supporting programs that improve lives across Hamblen County. Funds raised through the 2026 campaign will help support 25 local nonprofit partner agencies in 2027, ensuring continued investment in programs that strengthen education, financial stability, and health across the community.

This year’s pacesetter companies are Colortech, HomeTrust Bank and Lakeway Container. HomeTrust is the employer of 2026 United Way Chairwoman and HomeTrust Senior Vice President/Market President Jessica Rich.

“It has some very powerful things that we are as a community,” Rich said. “When I think about ‘Rich in Community,’ (the 2026 campaign theme) it’s about not what we have, but who we have and who gives. It’s a reflection on the strength that we have in our community for people who are willing to come together, people who care, people who lead, people who step up and show one another making sure that one doesn’t have to face tough times alone.”

Rich also said that wealth isn’t measured by dollars, but by tradition, connection and a shared commitment to lift one another up.

“It’s really about an opportunity for us to come together as a community to support so many of the good organizations,” Rich said. “United Way succeeds when neighbors come together. This year’s theme, ‘Rich in Community,’ reflects the strength we have when we invest in one another. I’m honored to help lead this campaign and work alongside the volunteers, partners, and donors who make real change possible.”

United Way veteran Tim Coley called the event a “kickoff to the kickoff.”

“Campaigns cannot be successful without our pacesetters,” Coley said. “Number one, you all are here, but more importantly you all have agreed to be pacesetters. United Way has been supporting the community for more than 70 years. To me, that’s a testament not only of the hearts of the business community, but also of the citizenry of Hamblen County. What is amazing to me is this strength is continuing to grow.

“I’m excited about this campaign and I know this year we’re going to have another stellar campaign,” Coley said. “We can’t do that without pacesetter companies, I want you to know that you are more than donors; you are leaders in the community, both the company and individually.”

“I’m excited to be the chairwoman this year,” Rich said. “Hailey kind of twisted my arm and we decided we needed some ‘girl power.’” United Way also recognized its dedicated 2026 Loaned Executives: Frankie Cox, Jessica Mills, Tim Crews and Lisa Grooms, who will play a key role in engaging workplaces and strengthening campaign efforts throughout the community.

Executive Director Haley Fugate emphasized the importance of early leadership and shared excitement about new ways to engage the community this year. “‘Rich in Community’ is more than a theme—it’s a reminder that our greatest strength is each other,” said Fugate. “This luncheon is where that momentum begins. We are especially excited to introduce new resources that help us better tell the United Way story, highlight our partner agencies, and make giving easier than ever through our new online donation platform as we prepare for our official campaign kickoff this fall.”

For 71 years, United Way Hamblen County has worked to improve lives by mobilizing the caring power of the community. The organization will host its official 2026 Campaign Kickoff Breakfast in September, where the broader community will be invited to join the effort and celebrate the campaign launch.

The kickoff breakfast will be held on Tuesday, September 1 at First Presbyterian Church of Morristown. Report luncheons will give way to Update Breakfasts this year. These will be held on October 13 and November 10 at 7:30 a.m. with locations to be announced.

United Way Hamblen County encourages community members to get involved, give, and be part of a campaign that demonstrates what it truly means to be “Rich in Community.” To learn more, visit www.unitedwayhamblen. org or call 423-581-8601.