• Silver (10 - 19 years)
• Gold (20 - 24 years) or
• Diamond (25 or more years)

Please let us know who you are! We would like to know what shaped your involvement with United Way. Also, we value your opinion about our community needs and initiatives.

For more information, please contact This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it at 912.651.7715.

United Way of the Coastal Empire salutes the following individuals for their generosity, dedication and enthusiasm.  Their consistent support has truly changed lives for so many people and for our community. 

DR. & MRS. GERALD KRAMER

Dr. and Mrs. Gerald Kramer began donating to United Way in 1989 in Atlanta where he began his dental practice.  His wife, Jan, was the impetus.  “I was always working.  Jan said, ’You need to do some thing for the community.’ ”  Giving to United Way was one of the ways they chose to give back. 

 After moving to Savannah in 1999, they wanted to continue their community service work, their commitment to give back to the community.  “After all, one-third of my patients who pay me use United Way services.  This is the biggest bang for the buck.  It is an easy way for me to help so many people.  United Way provides a broad spectrum of care and help."

It wasn’t long before then President and CEO of United Way of the Coastal Empire Mike Williams approached Gerry to be on the Campaign Cabinet.  His first campaign (2001) chaired by Helen Downing got him hooked.  "With September 11th, it became a patriotic gesture to donate to the United Way."  Now in his ninth straight year on the Campaign Cabinet, Gerry, both Dentist Division chair and Unit VII (Professionals) chair, enjoys mentoring the new members of the Cabinet.  He has seen an increased awareness of the work of United Way during his decade here.  "Through advertising and the expansion of United Way's 2-1-1, more people are being serviced because more people are aware of what is available."

When asked if he encourages others to give to United Way, Gerry replied, “Are you kidding?  I tell everybody!” 

MARGARET DAVIS

Being “sold on” United Way has kept Loyal Contributor Margaret Davis donating to United Way of the Coastal Empire for the past 27 years.  The possibilities of the programs, the work of the agencies, and the structure of United Way — all have led to her contributing for more than a quarter century.  “The fundamental concept of United Way is helping, and that hasn’t changed over the years,” she states.  “United Way is the place to go for choices, whether it is for giving or volunteering.” 

As former Vice-President of Finance at United Way of the Coastal Empire, Margaret saw firsthand the impact that United Way has had on the community.   She has been touched personally by eight of the funded programs.  She feels that if people look through the list of programs funded by United Way, they will find some that have helped them or someone they know.    “The United Way stamp puts the dollars where they are needed most,” she notes.  “By giving to United Way you are assured that the funds will stay and help locally.”

Margaret has seen changes in United Way of the Coastal Empire during this 27 year time frame.  “In 1982, the amount raised during the fundraising campaign was $2 million.  Now the amount has grown more than four-fold.”  However, one thing that hasn’t changed over the years is the enthusiasm and care of the local staff. 

If you have donated to any United Way for at least 10 years (does not have to be continuous), please let us know.   We want to recognize you, thank you and show you the impact on the community from your dedication.  Please contact This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it  or 912.651.7715.