United Way of the Mark Twain Area Executive Director Joins Statewide Leaders at Governor’s Mansion

United Way Leaders from throughout the state are pictured with Governor Mike Kehoe, First Lady Claudia Kehoe, and Speaker of the House Jon Patterson.

Hannibal, MO – The Executive Director of the United Way of the Mark Twain Area, Denise Damron, recently joined fellow United Way leaders from across Missouri for a special evening at the Missouri Governor’s Mansion hosted by Governor Mike Kehoe.
The gathering provided an opportunity for collaboration and discussion around
strengthening communities throughout the state. Governor Kehoe, a longtime supporter of United Way, shared his personal connection to the organization, having chaired his local United Way campaign on two separate occasions. He is an advocate for United Ways throughout the state as he knows and understands the role United Way plays in addressing critical community needs.
During the evening, Governor Kehoe spoke with attendees about his policy agenda and
priorities for Missouri, offering insight into initiatives aimed at improving quality of life for residents across the state and their correlation.
Damron engaged directly with Governor Kehoe, asking what he believes is the most
valuable role local United Ways can play in their communities. The Governor emphasized the importance of working alongside community agencies to provide individuals not just assistance, but opportunities for a “hand up” toward long-term
stability and success.
“This was a meaningful opportunity to connect with leaders who share a commitment to strengthening Missouri communities,” said Damron. “Governor Kehoe’s perspective reinforces the importance of collaboration and focusing on sustainable solutions that truly help individuals move forward.”
Building on this momentum, Damron will soon travel to Washington, DC to participate in United Way Worldwide’s Advocacy Forum and Capitol Hill Day. The event brings together United Way leaders from across the country to engage with federal policymakers on issues impacting local communities.
Both the Governor’s Mansion event and the upcoming Advocacy Day are made possible through funding provided by United Way Worldwide, ensuring local leaders can represent and advocate for their communities

Governor Mike Kehoe and Denise Damron, Executive Director of the United Way of the Mark Twain Area, chat during the United Way Leaders visit to the Governor’s Mansion. Leaders from United Ways across the state gathered at the Governor’s Mansion with Kehoe and First Lady Claudia Kehoe. The Kehoes have a long history with United Way having both been very active in their local United Way.

at both the state and national levels.