April 2026

Stuff the Pantry's live dates are over, but there are still ways to support! There are drop-off boxes at the Geary County building, United Way JCGC, KS StateBank, Dillons, Velvet Hair Salon, and the JC Chamber of Commerce. You can also make financial donations through the QR code, by mail, or by dropping it off at the office.

NAME: Tammy Melton

HOMETOWN: Milford, KS

FAMILY: Married to Derrick Melton. We have two sons who are 20 & 17.

OCCUPATION: Office Manager for DM Construction & Remodeling. Owner/Operator of The Work Station.

HOBBIES: I enjoy fishing, going on walks, antiquing, decorating spaces, and spending time with my family.

WHY DID YOU WANT TO GET INVOLVED WITH UNITED WAY? I have a passion for helping others. The United Way does that. It gives me the opportunity to give back and support the community where it is needed. Especially involving children and the elderly. Two of my favorite events the United Way hosts are Stuff the Bus/Adopt a Backpack and Day of Caring. I enjoy being part of an organization that provides resources such as these.

Tammy Melton

Board Member

From the Director's Desk

Here’s a quick look:

Tax Assistance Program

Our amazing VITA volunteers wrapped up a successful VITA season. They filed over 500 tax applications! Just in filing fees, that is $75,000 saved for our community members.

Ben Kitchens' Volunteer of the Year

We were so happy to announce Fredia Warren as our 2025 Ben Kitchens' Volunteer of the Year. Friends, community members, and our partner agencies all came together to celebrate our volunteers and the amazing work that they do every day! Fredia, we are so thankful for all that you do for United Way and our communities.

Financial Assistance and Resource Information

Our office receives over 100 calls a month for resource information.
Through our partnership with Community Actions, we have provided over $22,000 in support. That is helping with utilities, rent, or deposits.
156 people have been able to stay in their homes, keep the lights on, stay warm, or finally have a safe roof over their head.

STUFF THE BUS - We know that school isn't even out yet, but we are already getting our schedules for Stuff the Bus. Be sure to follow us on social media so that you can help us STUFF THE BUS for the children in our community!!!

Together, let’s make 2026 a year of hope, impact, and community strength!

Thank you for being part of this journey.

United Is the Way

Nichole Mader

Executive Director

WAYS TO GIVE