The holidays are unlike the rest of the year. We spend our time differently. We marvel at how much a few small lights can change the look of the houses and buildings we see every day. We wear ties with flying reindeer on them.  

However we celebrate the holidays, this is a time of year for us to reflect and refresh. Our challenges don't disappear, of course, but the holidays can give us new strength. Let's use that strength to fortify our own lives, support our friends and family members, and contribute to the quality of our community. Reinvigorating our dedication to causes bigger than ourselves gives us opportunities to grow, to connect, and to be fulfilled.  

You know how that feels because you have chosen to partner with United Way to improve people's lives. But you may not know how much your support has meant to our community. For many people, your support has meant that they will go into the holidays with hope, security and opportunity they didn't have last year. That means they can start 2016 ready to grow, succeed, and thrive. Thanks for making their dreams, and our community's dreams, come true. Happy Holidays!