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Photo courtesy of ClearRiver Graphics |
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Dear ,
We were fortunate to have Chris Gardner, author of "The Pursuit of Happyness" as our featured speaker celebrating the kick-off of the 2009 United Way Community Campaign. Chris survived a childhood of poverty, domestic violence, alcoholism and family illiteracy. Nearly 1,200 community members gathered to hear his inspirational message of hope.
One of the moments that really stood out in Chris' incredible message was: "The Calvary ain't coming." He went on to say that, "Where lives are really going to be changed is right here, with friends, with neighbors and within our community."
This has been a tough year for so many. There are people in our community who are seeking help for the first time in their lives. United Way 2-1-1 Call Center statistics show that 70% of requests are for basic needs such as food, shelter and transportation. We are sensitive to the fact that the downturn in the economy has affected everyone and we are also sensitive to the reality that the economy is placing more people in vulnerable situations, creating an even greater need for resources through United Way.
We are embarking on an eight week journey to raise $4.8 million to help our community. Our 2009 campaign theme encourages everyone to Live United, challenging each and every one of us to: "Don't just wear the shirt, live it!" Our campaign this year serves as an invitation to get out there and GIVE, ADVOCATE or VOLUNTEER. Every one has something to offer, and together, we are making a difference!
Best regards,
Ann T. Fillmore
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Did you know?
You can follow the progress of the
2009 United Way Community Campaign
on Facebook and Twitter.
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2009 Campaign Cabinet
What is the Campaign Cabinet?
Campaign Cabinet volunteers provide leadership for United Way's Community Campaign.
What is their role?
Campaign Cabinet members are responsible for leading a United Way campaign division. They develop, implement and evaluate a comprehensive campaign plan, set goals and cultivate new relationships. They are the focal point of a team of volunteers who serve as United Way ambassadors to the business community.
What are the benefits?
Serving as a Campaign Cabinet leader is very rewarding, both personally and professionally. We combine excellent leadership opportunities with the personal satisfaction that comes from reaching out a hand to help others.
It's also an opportunity to network with other businesses in the community and provide your organization with enhanced visibility.
Thank you 2009 Campaign Cabinet!
We are grateful to the twenty-five caring community leaders who are committed to ensuring a successful United Way campaign. It is through community volunteers like you, that real and lasting change is taking place. Thank you!
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How do you LIVE UNITED?
We will feature stories of individuals,
just like you,
who are changing lives for the better
in our community.
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BE AN ADVOCATE
Forward this eNewsletter |
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You can LIVE UNITED by helping us spread the word. Imagine how many people we could touch if everyone forwards this to five friends.
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United Way Pacesetters
Leading the Charge
The 2009 United Way Pacesetters are leading the way for the community campaign. Reporting early campaign results of more than $404,000, which represents 8.4% of our total goal, this group has certainly created momentum for a successful campaign.
Pacesetter organizations exceeded their goals, increased employee participation and have created a mood of anticipation and excitement in our community. These local businesses got creative with their campaigns; they had bake sales, created yard signs, participated in hamster ball races at the Dow Diamond, hosted talent shows and even asked their clients for a donation to change the office radio station.
We are grateful to the following businesses who lead the charge with an early campaign and inspired our community.
The Apothecary Shoppe
City of Midland Police Department
The Dow Chemical Company -
Cellulosics and Water and Process
Solutions
Dow Corning Corporation - DC40
Dr. Klomparens' Office
MidMichigan Health's Cardiology
Services
Partner Agencies of United Way
Three Rivers Construction
United Way Board of Directors
Wolverine Bank
We are grateful to the 2009 United Way Pacesetters for showing they don't just wear the shirt. They LIVE IT! |
United Way Partner Agencies
Providing a Helping Hand
When I first found out that my husband Carl was suffering from dementia, I was overwhelmed and didn't know the best way to care for him. As his dementia progressed, I wanted to keep Carl at home as long as possible. Keeping his daily life as close to what it used to be was really tough.
Then I found Seasons. It is just unbelievable, what Senior Services has to offer. All the staff specializes in caring for people with dementia and provides activities that are so meaningful to the people who attend. Carl participates
during the day, giving me several hours to get things done. I can even take a nap. What a wonderful place Seasons is. It's just the thing that he needs to keep his life structured, and being with people is so important for my outgoing husband.
I wouldn't have been able to keep Carl at home without their help. I am so thankful to the United Way for providing funding to help make this possible for us!
Sincerely,
Jean (with Carl) |
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Volunteers Lend Their Muscle To Those In Need
United Way of Midland County's Fall Day of Caring encourages neighbors to set aside one day each fall to reach out a helping hand to people in need.
Nearly 200 community volunteers formed teams and worked together to complete almost thirty projects. Blessed with beautiful weather, the teams worked on a multitude of projects, ranging from raking, painting, staining, weatherization and small handy-man projects.
"We had such a good time and the homeowner was overwhelmed with joy," shared one volunteer.
Serving those in our community that are most vulnerable--the elderly and the disabled--these community advocates truly demonstrate the caring power of our community.
"So many of us take for granted the ability to do simple things, like rake the yard and clean out the gutters. When you're in a wheelchair, those day-to-day activities become more of a challenge," stated one grateful homeowner.
Throughout the year, United Way of Midland County connects more than 2,300 volunteers with opportunities to improve the quality of life within our community. Join us in turning your passion into action by becoming a volunteer.
For more information or to volunteer, call the United Way of Midland County at (989) 631-7660, email at dayofcaring@unitedwaymidland.org or visit www.volunteermidland.org. |
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