United Way

of Southwest Minnesota

Thank you for your ongoing support to help make this area of Southwest Minnesota a better place to live and to raise a family.  Even though the ground most likely won't be covered with snow, there is an excitement and anticipation for winter and the holidays that many in our area celebrate.

It's important to remember that this time of year isn't always bright for everyone in our community.  Individuals and families continue to struggle and the holidays can often add more stress to already difficult situations.

As you consider how you will celebrate this year, we hope that you will remember our neighbors in need by sharing the greatest gift that any one person can give - the gifts of yourself through the sharing of time, talent and/or treasure.

A healthy, educated community is important to all of us.  As you consider year end giving, please keep your contribution local and support the building blocks for a strong community - education, income and health. 

Thank you and happy holidays!

"Wherever there is a human being,

there is an opportunity for kindness."  Seneca

You can give the gift of telling stories at holiday time to teach children about language and family.  Family stories are great because you can tell them anywhere and anytime -- no batteries or gadgets required.  Tell them about "When mommy was a girl....," "Grandma's favorite Christmas cookie is...," "Daddy's best present ever was..."

Children love to hear family stories.  As they listen, they learn.  Every time you tell "about the time when," your child gains a greater understanding of you, her history and culture.  As your child gets older, he can participate, too.  Encourage your child to retell family stories with you.  Ask that he can answer and talk about memories you both share, such as "Remember when we helped Grandma bake a cake?"

The reality is that hearing family stories helps a child learn about language, her family and herself while also building listening skills and a love of storytelling. 

We Give Books is an on-line program supported by the Pearson Foundation that gives a hard cover or paperback book to a needy child somewhere in the world whenever someone takes time to read and verify that they read a FREE digital book on line. 

Click here to visit We Give Books and to learn about this year-round program that has a goal of building literacy.  

FYI, United Way of Southwest Minnesota partnered with the We Give Books organization for the Read for the Record event where over 2,000 SW MN children read Llama, Llama Red Pajama on October 6.

Don't spend Christmas alone. Here are some local options for December 25:

Slayton:  St.Ann's (12 noon)

Call by Dec. 20, 507-836-6445 or 507- 879-3484. Carry outs available.

Canby: St Peter's (12 noon) Call by Dec 22, 507-223-7898 or 507-275-3047.  Carry outs available.

Marshall:  Holy Redeemer Carlin Hall (12 noon - 2:00 PM).  To have a meal delivered call 507-829-8088.  To volunteer call 507-532-4543 or 530-1224.

Saturday, Dec 24, Christmas Eve (5:00 -6:30 PM) Christ United Presbyterian Church.

Here are some noteworthy events to put into your 2012 calendar:

Friday, February 3 - Evening dinner with beer pairings at the Landmark Bistro.

Friday, March 2 (7:45 AM) - Progress Report to the Community at the Marshall Area YMCA.

Tuesday, March 20, (7:00 PM)
Parent Education Workshop at Marshall High School Theater by Kindred Hearts, a teacher & pediatrician duo who follow the Love and Logic philosophy.

Tuesday, May 1, (5:30 PM). Power of the Purse at Marshall Golf Club.

Grant deadlines:
2nd Round Venture Grants

January 31

Community Impact Grants

April 2

Student Emergency Fund Grants

May 15

2012 is the 50th anniversary of the founding of United Way of Southwest Minnesota.  Originally founded as a local Community Chest by community leaders, it has evolved and grown into a leading philanthropic organization serving people and communities in this area.   

We need your stories and ideas about how to celebrate this accomplishment.  Send us an email with your suggestions by clicking here.