The United Fund of Warren County opened its 102nd annual Torchlight Campaign the way it always does: with the Nickel Challenge on the Veterans Memorial Bridge. Residents and local organizations lined the span with coins and donations, marking the official start of another year of community fundraising. This year’s campaign goal is $735,000, and every dollar raised stays in Warren County.

That money supports more than 22 nonprofit member agencies providing essential programs and services to families and individuals across the county. The 2026 Nickel Challenge carried special meaning, honoring the late Barbara Tubbs, a longtime United Fund supporter and former board member. Her son Rodger Tubbs said his mother would have been thrilled by the continued community turnout, noting that her heart and soul were deeply invested in the United Fund and other local causes.

United Fund director Lacey Hanson credited the community’s consistent generosity, saying the organization is fortunate that residents and businesses get behind the campaign year after year. Donations are collected throughout the year, so there’s still time to contribute if you missed the bridge event. What’s your favorite memory of the Nickel Challenge or a local nonprofit the United Fund supports?