Jessica Goubeaux has been named the 2019 Salina Area United Way Volunteer of the Year.

Goubeaux was recognized Tuesday at the Salina Area United Way 2019/2020 Campaign Kick Off. The kickoff event was at the Hilton Garden Inn and Convention Center, Salina.

The 2019/20 Salina Area United Way Community fundraising campaign theme is “Together we CAN make a difference.”  Jake Wise, vice president-branch manager at Capital Federal Savings Bank, is campaign chairman.

Goubeaux, a Southeast of Saline graduate, has been an active United Way volunteer, most recently as community engagement chair. 

“I made the choice to spend some of my time with the local United Way because I believe in its mission, align myself with their programming and appreciate the diversity they have in awarding grants,” Goubeaux said. “The agency’s reach is felt across our community and I am proud to be a small part of their story.”

At the kickoff, she challenged the attendees to find their passion.

“Because of the diversity of work SAUW does in the community, I would bet that no matter what your passion is there is a volunteer opportunity for you here,” Goubeaux said. 

The Volunteer of the Year joined Great Plains Manufacturing as the credit manager in 2018 and appreciates the company’s community focus.

“Being an active member in our community has always been and always will be important to Great Plains,” said Tim Henry, manager Great Plains Manufacturing. “Much of our success, and continued success, can be attributed to the strength and health of this community and throughout the state, we are delighted to give back.”

Salina Area Executive Director Amanda Michaelis on Tuesday also reported how United Way donations are kept local. Michaelis shared a story of a mother and her son benefiting from the multitude or resources in the community.

For more information about the Salina Area United Way, visit www.unitedwaysalina.org

To learn more about volunteering, visit www.volunteer.unitedwaysalina.org