Our History

In 1955, a group of Kirksville businessmen and civic leaders felt the time was right for the Kirksville area to organize its fundraising efforts.  The intent was to consolidate the many fund-raising activities to avoid duplication of effort and costs.  United Way of Adair County was started in 1955 with Walter Beard, Jr. as the first president. 

The first campaign brought in $30,021, which exceeded the goal of $25,671.  This money was used to fund six agencies:  Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts, Salvation Army, American Red Cross, Sojourners Library and the Adair County Child Welfare Service.  Four of these agencies are still part of our United Way today. 

The fundraising efforts continue each fall, but more importantly, emphasis has been placed on letting donors know how their contributions are really making a difference in people’s lives. 

And what lies ahead?  In the years to come United Way will continue to positively impact our community.  United Way is working with community partners to identify solutions that get at the root cause of problems.  United Way will do what matters.