GAINESVILLE, Texas — Cooke County United Way has recognized its top donors, businesses, and community partners from the 2026 annual campaign — and is already looking ahead to its biggest fundraising event of the fall.
2026 Campaign Honorees
Mary and G.C. Ellis earned the campaign's top individual honor, the Trail Blazer Award, given to donors who contribute $5,000 or more.
Five donors received Scout Awards for giving between $2,000 and $4,999: Curtis Groves, Jay and Marcy Titus, Lora Saikin, Ryan Morris, and Tim and Mary Turbeville.
More than 20 individuals were recognized at the Wagon Master level ($1,000–$1,999), and nearly 60 donors received Wagon Driver recognition for contributions between $500 and $999.
Business and Organizational Awards
Muenster State Bank, First United Bank, and Bezner Insurance earned Small Business Awards for achieving 100% employee participation among businesses with fewer than 25 employees.
Nortex Communications received the Arley Daurity Award for 100% participation among larger employers.
Molded Fiber Glass Co. Texas and Walnut Bend School earned Presidential Awards for increasing their giving by 50% or more over the prior year.
Fifteen organizations were named Pacesetters — businesses and institutions recognized for leading by example through workplace campaigns. This year's Pacesetters include the City of Gainesville, Gainesville ISD, North Central Texas College, and North Texas Medical Center, among others.
Twenty-three local small businesses were also honored in the Small Business | Big Impact category, including Mom's Donuts, Fischer's Meat Market, and York Eye Associates PC.
Power of the Purse Returns November 5
Cooke County United Way has set Thursday, November 5, 2026 for the 15th annual Power of the Purse — billed as "Cooke County's Largest Ladies Night Out."
The event pairs dinner, games, entertainment, and a purse giveaway with a fundraising mission that benefits United Way programs across Cooke County. First United Bank is the presenting sponsor for 2026.
Tickets and sponsorships are available through the United Way's website. Volunteer and donation opportunities are also open for those who want to help behind the scenes.
Co-chairs Christi Reed and Maysen Freeman are leading the event committee, with Andrea Grangruth serving as treasurer and Cheryl Gomez as secretary.
Cooke County United Way is located at 114 E. Main Street in Gainesville. For information, call (940) 665-1793 or visit cookeuw.org.