Contributions made by area employees toward United Way topped $76,000 in 2015.

United Way for Dawson County celebrated a successful fundraising campaign March 25 by honoring the top contributors in 2015.

For the last nine years, Dawsonville Kroger has led the way with donations, this year collecting more than $13,000 for United Way's partner agencies.

The Dawson County School System followed in second place with $6,420 in contributions, and Northside Hospital-Forsyth rounded out the third position.

Kathy Galbraith, director of business development for the hospital, said Northside is proud to support United Way.

"We have a common goal to improve lives in the community," she said. "Dawson has a large need to help improve the quality of life here in the county.

"It is very important to Northside that we help families with their health and medical needs along with partnering with wonderful organizations like United Way to make a positive impact in people's lives."

Foothills Community Bank was recognized as the top contributing bank, receiving the Community Chest Award.

The funds collected will be distributed to agencies serving Dawson County.

Areas of focus range from family strengthening and community safety, to therapeutic services for children and support for youth.

St. Vincent DePaul, Family Connection, court appointed special advocates and Girl Scouts are among 14 partner agencies receiving assistance.

United Way for Dawson County Co-chair Justin Power thanked all you contributed in the combined effort "to improve the quality of life in our community."

"Please know that every penny collected in our community serves and will serve the purpose we have set forth," he said.