The United Way of the Pennyrile recently announced Amy and Derrick Watson as campaign co-chairs for its 2026-27 fundraising campaign, which will carry the theme “Making Headlines and Making a Difference.”
United Way Executive Director Melanie Noffsinger said the campaign will officially begin in July, with a kickoff breakfast planned for September. She said the Watsons have already begun helping build excitement and momentum for the upcoming campaign.
Amy Watson, a longtime television journalist in Paducah and Nashville, said retirement has allowed her to become more involved in local community efforts alongside her husband, Derrick Watson, who recently retired from the Hopkinsville Water Environment Authority after nearly three decades.
click to download audioDerrick Watson said he had discussed serving as campaign chair with Noffsinger for several years, but waited until retirement to officially commit to the role.
Noffsinger said the campaign will help more than a dozen partner agencies.
click to download audioDerrick Watson said the 15 agencies in the Pennyrile will continue to assist local families and people in need.
click to download audioAmy Watson said the campaign slogan, “You Are the Story,” reflects both the donors who make the work possible and the individuals whose lives are impacted through United Way-supported programs.
click to download audioNoffsinger added that volunteers recently completed annual panel visits to partner agencies to learn more about the services being provided throughout the community. She described the process as eye-opening, especially for first-time volunteers.
