The Bucyrus, Crestline and Galion United Way chapters announced Monday they have formally merged to create the new United Way of Crawford County.

Amber Wertman, former director of the Galion Historical Society and a Crawford County native, has been named as the United Way of Crawford County's new Executive Director.

"By coming together, sharing our talent and resources, we are able to have greater impact on thoe who need us most in the communities across Crawford County," Wertman explained. "This merger is about amplifying the mission.

"United Way believes in the power of partnerships and collaboration to solve problems," she added. "The boards of trustees had a vision for our future and a belief in the power of partnership, and the result was the United Way of Crawford County. We are very excited for the future."

Discussions held more than a year ago between the three United Way boards led to the merger to become a more efficient, effective and fiscally responsible organization.

The new combined entity will have the capacity to engage more donors, advocates and volunteers to address the critical issues facing the county's communities in the areas of education, income and health.

The current board of directors includes: Bethany Fox (president), Val Estep (vice president), Linda Smith (secretary), Suzanne Binau (treasurer), Mark Powell (past president), Peggy Reeves, Eric Young, Robin Showers, Hershel Horn, Steve Frazee, Matt Oriansm Malinda Nicholls, Pennie Fox, Val Sanderson and Erin McMullen.

Board president Bethany Fox stated, "I am very excited about the opportunities the United Way of Crawford County has for its future. The board of trustees is committed to impact work that will directly benefit the citizens of Crawford County. We are not a fundraiser, but a finder of programs that have collective impact. I am proud of what we have already accomplished in such a short period of time. We have many people to thank for making this merger a success."

Its new office will be located in the Galion Chamber of Commerce building at 106 Harding Way East in Galion.

The office can be reached by phone at 419-468-4291 or sending an email to unitedwayofcrawfordcounty@gmail.com with any mail being sent to Post Office Box 242 in Galion, 44833.