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It's that time of the year again. Not football season, back-to-school season or apple season. It is United Way campaign time, a time that gives each of us a great opportunity to make a difference here at home.
United Way is a nonprofit organization that pulls the community together to provide help where it is needed most. Each year, we raise funds to provide programs at 25 area human service organizations that nurture children, strengthen and support families, foster independence and provide basic needs in Winona, Trempealeau and Buffalo counties.
Without these organizations, the foundations of our communities would crumble. When people in need are provided for, everyone benefits. Our schools and neighborhoods are safer, and our local economies have opportunity for growth.
Everyone has a role to play to keep our communities healthy and functional. United Way serves as a one-stop shop to your philanthropic needs. If you choose to make a financial contribution, United Way ensures that money goes toward addressing the most pressing needs.
If you choose to donate your time through volunteerism, United Way will help connect you with an organization that will best fit your skills and interests. If you choose advocate for a cause, United Way will help you find the settings where you will be most influential.
There are so many ways to make a difference. Make it your prerogative to give back to the community you call home and see how your act benefits everyone. If your place of employment runs a United Way campaign this fall, please consider participating. If everyone donates just a few dollars from their paychecks, so many lives can be touched and improved. If you usually donate, please consider increasing the amount this year.
Our funded partner agencies are seeing an increase in need as the economy continues to struggle. They need more resources to effectively operate and many are seeing decreases in their sources of funding. They are counting on the United Way campaign to stabilize them and help them press on.
Contact United Way today and commit to your role as a community benefactor. We are happy to answer any questions and guide you through your options. Call (507) 452-4624 or e-mail unitedway@unitedway
winona.org. Give. Advocate. Volunteer. Live united.
Forkner Moe is the executive director of the United Way of the Greater Winona Area.
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