Now, more than ever...

Since the beginning of the current economic crisis in 2008, charitable organizations generally, and Butler County United Way specifically, have been on the horns of the proverbial dilemma: Because unemployment persists at near-record levels and compensation for those who are fortunate enough to be working is in decline, the demand for social services from non-profit agencies is skyrocketing at the same time that the contributions those same organizations rely upon for operations are plummeting.

To make matters worse, the problems of the non-profit world are visited upon public sector supports, as well. During my last two years as a county official, our Department of Job and Family Services saw a 50% increase in its Food Stamp caseload, and a 20% reduction in the staff it had to administer that same program. Perhaps predictably, this is all prelude to my appeal for your help.

Now, more than ever in my lifetime, our friends and neighbors need us to do more than we typically do to help, even though we ourselves are cutting back wherever we can. The thing about an economic crisis like the current one is that everyone knows someone who is out of work, who has maxed out their credit cards in the futile hope that employment will come before the credit limit is reached, who has lost their house because staying up with the mortgage payments just wasn't possible any longer.

For ninety years, the Butler County United Way has been here to help widows and orphans, children and the elderly, the hard-working and those unable to work or to find work - our friends and neighbors in need. And we are here still, trying our best to keep hope alive for thousands of families trying to claw their way back to the middle class, and for countless children hoping for a future brighter than their past.

And so, if you are fortunate enough to still be working, even if you may be making less than you were last year, please consider whether there may be more you can do for your friends and neighbors by making a gift to the Butler County United Way - or by increasing your gift. If you have time to offer, visit www.bc-unitedway.org and find an agency whose need for volunteers aligns with your time and skills. If you are so inclined, advocate for a stronger response to the needs of our suffering friends.

I often talk about what a generous, giving community I am fortunate to live in. I hope someday, looking back, this will be one of those times that will come to mind when I say that.

Bruce