United Way of  
Midland County
Live United - United Way

GIVE. ADVOCATE. VOLUNTEER.





WHAT'S HAPPENING AT UNITED WAY OF MIDLAND COUNTY








 
Dear , 
 
The year 2008 will be remembered for the many economic struggles we faced, but more importantly for the incredible message of hope that was extended to our friends and neighbors in need.
 
This year, we encouraged everyone to "Live United."  This message is as powerful as it is simple--when we all work together, toward a common goal, we can change the face of our community.
 
We met that challenge, raising just over a record-setting $4.9 million.  The strong leadership of campaign chair David Dupre inspired each of us to get involved by sharing our time, talents and treasures.
 
As we continue into 2009, we recognize that the needs in our community will continue to increase.  Be assured that your investment in United Way will continue to shape the future of Midland County in a very visible and personal way.  The board and staff are committed to partnering with our community agencies to offer innovative ways to reach those in our community who need it most.
 
Please accept our gratitude for your continued support of United Way of Midland County and for "Living United" each and every day.   
  
Best regards,
 
Ann T. Fillmore                    Jeff Wagner 
Executive Director               2008 Board President  
  



 
 

OPEN YOUR HEART.
FIND YOUR MUSCLE. 
LEND YOUR VOICE.
JOIN THE MOVEMENT  


 2008 Charles J. Strosacker Award Winner is Jan Lampman
Executive Director, The ARC of Midland 
 Jan Lampman 2008 Strosacker Award Recipient

The Charles J. Strosacker Award was first awarded in 1990, honoring individuals from United Way agencies who have had a significant impact on human care services in Midland County.  That spirit of leadership within our community, showing compassion for those less fortunate and the innovative spirit are all qualities that define a Strosacker Award recipient. 

 
Serving as the Executive Director of the ARC of Midland, Jan Lampman works tirelessly to promote the general welfare of individuals with developmental disabilities, and to foster the growth of programs and services necessary to promote their presence, inclusion, and participation in our community.
 
"I have never worked with anyone who is able to turn a crisis into an opportunity, as Jan can do."
--James R. Heffel, Past President of the ARC Board of Directors
 
When Medicaid eliminated dental benefits for people with disabilities, Jan rallied volunteer dentists to offer services to those who could not afford it. When the Midland County Public Guardian was on maternity leave, Jan stepped up to provide interim coverage for the areas developmentally disabled clients. There are more than three hundred individuals in Midland County that have a better and more fulfilling life because of Jan and the efforts of the ARC of Midland.
 
"Jan cares about each and every person that is a part of the ARC. She is passionate about their rights while at the same time making sure they are protected."
--The Honorable Doreen Allen, Chief Probate & Circuit Judge 

Jan and her fellow nominees, Alison Ginter of the Midland Community Center, and Wendy Plewa of West Midland Family Center all embody the qualities that Charles J. Strosacker held dear. Their compassion, innovative thinking and strong leadership have resulted in real and very visible impacts on those in need. Congratulations to all three on their many achievements.
 



 

Did you know?
Since it's launch last summer,
nearly 500 people have recognized savings through our FamilyWize Presecription Drug Program,
saving an average of $20 per prescription.



CHARACTER IS EVERYTHING
 
 White Family Boy Scout Photo
 
Where did we learn valuable skills when we were kids?  Perhaps at school, through athletics or at home.  Paul and Kim White have found a special and unique place that is equipping their three sons with one of life's most important traits--character.  The Boy Scout program develops a solid life foundation based on 12 core values: Citizenship, Compassion, Cooperation, Courage, Faith, Health and Fitness, Honesty, Perseverance, Positive Attitude, Resourcefulness, Respect and Responsibility.  Scouting defines character as "Values in Action."
 
"A plaque in our house reads:  'THOUGHTS become WORDS, WORDS become ACTIONS, ACTIONS become CHARACTER, CHARACTER is EVERYTHING," shares Paul. "Our three boys are as different as milk, cheese, and butter. Same source, but each very unique," he continued. "Since the focus in Scouting is on values development, it doesn't matter what your child's IQ is, nor whether they're tall or short, big or small, active or quiet."
   
Boy Scouts have been instilling values one child at a time since 1910, shaping the lives of such noted public figures as John F. Kennedy and Bill Gates.  It is also an important part of shaping the character of over 1,400 young people in Midland County each year.  And remember, "CHARACTER IS EVERYTHING."
 





GIVE





2008 United Way of Midland County Report to the Community

When we reach out a hand to one, we can influence the condition of all.  Learn more about how United Way of Midland County is working to advance the common good by focusing their efforts on the building blocks for a good life; education, self-sufficiency and health. 
 
 Annual Report Cover





ADVOCATE




United Way of Midland County
and Midland Daily News Partner to Improve Lives
 
Neighbor to Neighbor
 
As we continue to face the reality of our struggling economy, we often feel frustrated and helpless. Your United Way is providing a lifeline of hope through the Neighbor-to-Neighbor program. For those who need help, we are providing a direct connection to the many resources available. For those who can give help, we are offering an efficient way to connect. No one in our community is alone and there is hope. We have experienced tough times before and will again, but what will be remembered is how we come together as a community, one neighbor at a time.
 
Watch for the upcoming series of articles in the Midland Daily News!
 
To GET Help:
Call United Way's First Call for Help (989) 835-2211.
 
 
To GIVE Help:
Call United Way of Midland County at (989) 631-7660.
 
 





VOLUNTEER




United Way of Midland County Volunteer Center
Spring Season
of Caring '09
 
 
OPEN YOUR HEART
LEND YOUR MUSCLE 
 
WHO can participate?  THE ENTIRE COMMUNITY IS INVITED.  Anyone can put a project team together.  Ask your friends, co-workers, family, church group, club, or civic organization.
 
 
WHAT
is Spring Season of Caring? 
Organized through the United Way of Midland County Volunteer Center, this yearly season links willing volunteers with people needing help. Projects range from raking an elderly person's yard to painting and staining for a neighbor with a disability.
 
 
 
WHERE is the greatest need?  Projects are submitted by our partner agencies and other non-profit human service agencies to serve those in our community who need it most--like the elderly or the disabled. 
 
 
WHEN is Spring Season of Caring? 
April 15 - May 15, 2009
 
 
HOW do I get involved?  Put together a team of 5-10 people, or we can match you up with an existing team. To sign up, please call us at (989) 631-7660 or simply e-mail:  [email protected].  

 Click here to learn more about Spring Season of Caring

 





Working Together, we are making a difference right here in Midland County!



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