Artis Williams has volunteered with St. John United Way for the past five years, concentrating in the last two on the nonprofit’s award allocations.

It’s in that focus on “where the money actually goes” that inspired him to take on more responsibility.

So it was last month that Williams was named St. John United Way executive director, stepping in for the retiring John Olynick.

St. John the Baptist Parish is lucky to have Williams.

“This is something I have prepared for over a long period of time,” Williams told me this week. “St. John is a community I love and cherish. It’s a diverse community, and various people have needs. It’s one of those things where I like meeting needs wherever the needs are. United Way is one way to meet those needs.”

A resident of Prairieville, Williams retired last year following 35 years of service with Air Products & Chemicals Inc., where his last role was Reserve plant manager.

His experience in industry and chief administration includes positions of plant manager, production superintendent and project engineer for chemical companies across seven states.

Community service was included in each stop and continues today in retirement.

“I got involved with United Way back when I was in Maryland 15 years ago,” he said. “I want to try to work with economic development to make sure I’m tied into any new companies or businesses coming into the area. I also want to continue supporting the existing businesses and industries that are part of United Way by helping them see the benefits and impact United Way provides. United Way can have, has had and will continue to have this impact as long as they continue to support it.”

There is no time to rest for Williams as St. John United Way is in the throes of its chief fundraiser — the 2017-18 Campaign Kickoff, seeking to raise $800,000 through April.

St. John United Way’s stated goal is to create long-lasting changes by addressing the underlying causes of community problems. Community impact areas include promoting health, wellness and independence, assisting with basic and emergency needs, helping children succeed and strengthening community and families.

Partner agencies that are often the beneficiaries of United Way funding allocations include St. John Ministry of Care, New Wine Development Corp., Dolly Parton Imagination Library, Financial Literacy, Boys Scouts of America, Girl Scouts Louisiana East, Catholic Charities, Child Advocacy Services, Metropolitan Centers for Community Advocacy, Special Olympics Louisiana, Blessed to be a Blessing and Assistance for Single Parents.

Williams told me he is anxious to share the United Way message with all large and small businesses, civic groups and interested individuals.

“People can contact us by going to our website (stjohnunitedway.org) or they can call (985-651-9118) the United Way office and get involved,” Williams said. “The things that we are actively engaged in right now are the Campaign Kickoff and we’re listening, obviously, with the storm Harvey and how that might impact us as far as disaster relief.”

The three chief ways to contribute are through straight donations, company and individual payroll deductions and volunteer hours.

Williams encourages anyone with questions to reach out, adding he is happy to provide in-person presentations and answers to those interested in learning more.

Stephen Hemelt is publisher and editor of L’OBSERVATEUR. He can be reached at 985-652-9545 or stephen.hemelt@lobservateur.com.