United Way of Muskingum, Perry, and Morgan Counties 2025 Campaign Superhero Kickoff
Zanesville, OH — October 20, 2025
The United Way of Muskingum, Perry, and Morgan Counties (UWMPM) kicked off its 2025 campaign season with a spirited event. From September 15–26, twenty local organizations participated in an online fundraiser, each nominating one employee to “don a cape” and be recognized as a UWMPM Superhero for their generosity and commitment to building stronger communities.
These superheroes represented five divisions—Big Business, Special Services, Education, Small Business, and Government—each united by a shared belief in the impact of UWMPM across our region. Organizations rallied their networks to vote for their division’s representative in the UWMPM Community Impact League.
After all votes were cast, UWMPM hosted a celebratory “Oscar”-style award ceremony to announce the winners. The five organizations honored in the Community Impact League were: Stewart Glapat, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Licking and Perry Counties, Muskingum University, The Grooming Room of New Concord, and the City of Zanesville Police Department. The event highlighted the power of community collaboration in driving support for local initiatives.
“I’ve supported United Way in the past, but after talking with my staff, we thought this would be a fun and unique way to get involved,” said Tina Smith, owner of The Grooming Room in New Concord. “We chose to highlight one of our newest groomers, Jennifer Anderson, because she has a big heart and loves giving back. We all had a blast.”
“The kickoff event was a fantastic way to launch our campaign season and raise funds that make a meaningful impact in our community,” said Alyssa Moore, Community Engagement Coordinator for UWMPM. “We’re grateful to every organization that participated and to each superhero who inspires others to give.”
The 2025 Workplace Campaign continues through the fall, supporting programs that promote education, financial stability, and healthy communities throughout Muskingum, Perry, and Morgan Counties. This annual effort relies not only on the enthusiasm of participating organizations but also on the generosity of individual donors whose contributions help sustain vital services across the region. Their outreach and involvement are the driving force behind the campaign’s success and the reason UWMPM continues to launch new initiatives year after year.
For more information or to donate, visit unitedwaympm.org or call 740-454-6872 Ext 103
United Way Drives Community Effort to Combat Food Insecurity with Food Farmacy Program!
Zanesville, Ohio, November 18, 2025 – As food insecurity continues to affect individuals and families throughout Muskingum, Perry, and Morgan Counties, United Way of Muskingum, Perry, and Morgan Counties (MPM) is stepping up efforts to meet urgent needs. Through its Food Farmacy program, United Way of MPM is distributing 400 nutritious, shelf-stable food boxes at local health care centers and a local college campus. Ensuring that community members have access to reliable, healthy food options during moments of heightened need.
The expansion of this program not only provides immediate support through shelf-stable items such as whole grain pasta, protein sources, fruits and vegetables, but also empowers community members with essential knowledge about year-round food assistance programs. Each box includes educational materials detailing how to access community food pantries, what resources are available, and where individuals and families can turn for ongoing support.
By combining emergency food distribution with practical guidance on long-term assistance, United Way of MPM aims to reduce food insecurity across the region and strengthen the community’s connection to local resources. United Way also funds 2-1-1, a free and confidential service that helps community members connect with local food pantries and other essential resources. If you or someone you know needs food assistance, call 2-1-1 today to find help in your area.
Katie Grubbs, Community Impact Manager said, “Addressing food insecurity takes all of us. When organizations come together with a shared purpose, we show what’s possible when a community stands united. This partnership is a true example of our belief that United is the Way, the way we make lasting changes and support every neighbor in need.”
United Way of MPM extends its sincere gratitude to our program funder, NiSource, whose support makes the Food Farmacy initiative and distribution events like today possible. Their commitment to improving community health and combating food insecurity ensures that families across Muskingum, Perry, and Morgan Counties receive the resources they need. We also thank the dedicated volunteers who generously gave their time and energy to pack these food boxes. Their hard work, compassion, and teamwork reflect the spirit of service that strengthens our community and demonstrates that, together, we can make a meaningful difference.
Community members who wish to make a difference can support the Food Farmacy program by making a donation to United Way of Muskingum, Perry, and Morgan Counties at www.unitedwayofmpm.org. Every contribution, large or small, helps provide nutritious food, educational resources, and essential support to neighbors facing food insecurity. Together, we can ensure that more families across our communities have access to the healthy foods they need to thrive.
About the United Way of Muskingum, Perry, and Morgan Counties: Since 1956 UWMPM has empowered local people to make the most of what they have through outcome-based initiatives and investment in local programs. UWMPM’s focus is on improving health and well-being, helping young people realize their full potential, creating a stronger financial future, and addressing urgent needs in our community. If you would like to donate, volunteer, or apply for funding, please call 740-454-6872, or visit unitedwayofmpm.org.