Elk City, OK – Elk City Area United Fund has raised local dollars for local needs for nearly 80 years. The all-volunteer board collects community donations and distributes the money to seven nonprofits serving Beckham County.
“Every dollar stays here,” board member Blake Bustin said. “We have no overhead. One hundred percent goes to these seven organizations.”
United Fund typically grants about $56,000 to $57,000 each year. The board set a $100,000 goal for the 2026 campaign to build a cushion for agencies into the 2027 to 2028 cycle. A recent Thunder tickets raffle donated by Great Plains Bank brought in about $3,100.
How the money is raised is simple. Board members visit local businesses and individuals, explain the needs, and ask for support. “We have a very supportive community,” longtime board member Purcy Walker said. He pointed to Meals on Wheels as a daily example, with volunteers delivering food to elderly and disabled residents.
A hometown Christmas concert will help the effort. On Thursday, Dec. 4, at the Susan Powell Fine Arts Auditorium in Elk City, Purcy D. Walker and guests will perform songs from “Hometown Christmas.” Admission is free. Donations will be accepted for the United Fund and Heart to Heart Pregnancy Care Center. Jordan Cain is organizing the lineup, with plans to involve local students. The album is also available on vinyl at BTB Records.
United Fund supports Help Incorporated, Action Associates, Elk City Arts Council, Meals on Wheels, Elk City Civil Defense, Salvation Army, and CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates).
Board members are Mark Albert, Purcy Walker, Missy Carter, Kelsey Caswell, Devin Nevels, Micah Mullins, Brian and Janelle Hutchinson, Joe and Sondra Allen, Vance and Kendi McDonald, and Blake and Janessa Bustin.
How to donate: visit the Elk City Area United Fund Facebook page and scan the QR code, or contact any board member to arrange a check. All donations are tax deductible.
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