Vicksburg and Warren County’s largest source of money for local non-profits, honored its volunteers Thursday night during the United Way of West Central Mississippi’s annual banquet.

With a theme of “The Campaign Show starring The United Way,” campaign chairman Rich Feibelman led the organization to nearly meet its $1.3 million fundraising goal.

Feibelman and his team of volunteers set campaign goals to increase volunteerism and new donor base while raising $1.2 million.

“I couldn’t have done it with the volunteers and I thank you for your commitment and dedication in making the 2104 campaign successful,” Feibelman said.

Sylvia Hall was recognized as Campaign Coordinator of the Year for her work at Grand Gulf Nuclear Station and helping to raise more than $40,000 abovew the previous year.

Kay Lee was recognized as Agency Director of the Year for her work within the organization and her countless hours of volunteerism.

The Spirit of Vicksburg Award is given to a company that is able to overcome significant struggles. This year the award was given to The Vicksburg Post for its focused effort to promote the United Way and its partner agencies.

International Paper was honored as Corporation of the Year for its strong leadership and community involvement. The Redwood plant has made giving the culture of the facility.

Carrie Callender, the human resources manager at Anderson-Tully Lumber Company, was presented the Leadership Award for her work as an ambassador of the United Way.

The night’s biggest award, Volunteer of the Year, went to Dana Kenney. She has served as an accounts manager with the organization since 2010 and volunteers countless hours during fundraising events, and with We Care Community Services and the Salvation Army.

Two St. Aloysius seniors were awarded Bruce Alan Ebersole Jr. Memorial Scholarships. Jacob Breeden was awarded a $500 scholarship in part because of his 816 hours of community service. Robinson “Bash” Brown was awarded a $300 scholarship in part because of his 1,200 hours of community service. Both recipients had to write an essay on “Why youth should be engaged in community service.”

Five new directors were appointed to the organization’s board. They were Scott Cameron, Entergy Grand Gulf Nuclear Power Plant; Katie Ferrell, Trustmark Bank; Linda Fondren, Shape Up Sisters; Jill Pierce, community advocate/psychologist and Time Reeves, The Vicksburg Post.

Executive director Michelle Connelly pledged the organization would to find new ways to increase participation while remaining true to its mission.

The traditional start to the campaign season will be altered and a monthly “Start the day with the United Way” breakfast will focus on recruiting new volunteers and supporters. Other changes are in store for the organization and 2015 will be an exciting year for the United Way of West Central Mississippi.