KEENE, N.H. (MyKeeneNow)  Monadnock United Way shared updates on its fundraising campaign and childcare initiatives during Wednesday’s “Good Morning with Dan Mitchell.”

Monadnock United Way’s Sophie Carney-Brenner and Ashley Elliott discussed the organization’s campaign progress and childcare initiatives on WKBK Radio.

Listeners tuning into Good Morning with Dan Mitchell on WKBK Radio Wednesday morning heard an encouraging update from the Monadnock United Way, which reported that its annual fundraising campaign is off to a strong start.

Donor Relations Manager Sophie Carney-Brenner told host Dan Mitchell that the campaign has already raised more than $557,000 toward its $1.5 million goal, thanks to early momentum from a well-attended kickoff event held in September. That event featured the presentation of the Ken Jue Award to community leader Joanne Fenton, presented by her son, State Senator Donovan Fenton, and was followed by a “Day of Caring” where 47 volunteers assisted eight local nonprofits.

Carney-Brenner emphasized that the early success reflects the community’s continued commitment to collaboration. “A big highlight of that morning was the presentation of the prestigious Ken Jue Award, and we were honored to give it to Joanne Fenton for her outstanding dedication and contributions to the region,” she said during the broadcast.

Joining her on the program was Ashley Elliott, one of the campaign’s new general co-chairs. Elliott, who works at Timken and chairs the board of Rise for Baby and Family, shared how her professional and volunteer roles have deepened her connection to the United Way’s mission. “I’ve seen firsthand the connections the United Way creates,” she said.

Elliott also spoke passionately about one of the campaign’s focus areas: addressing the region’s childcare crisis. She highlighted a partnership between the United Way and Keene State College that funds a free Child Development Associate (CDA) program, enabling childcare workers to become certified lead teachers.

Carney-Brenner closed the interview by reminding listeners that donations can be made online, by text, check, or through recurring monthly contributions.

The Monadnock United Way appears monthly on Good Morning with Dan Mitchell to update the community on its campaign progress and ongoing initiatives.

Listen to the full interview: