|
Looking back, the outstanding community victory won through meeting the 2008 United Way Campaign goal - more than $1.85 million dollars - was a clear and welcome signal that we will continue to have a dramatic impact in our community. Over the history of our United Way , millions of dollars have been leveraged to change lives. That will continue well into the future.
Think about it. The local economy had suffered more than its share of bruises. We have experienced company closures and the job outlook has not been steady as we'd like. Yet a community of generous donors came together. Individuals, corporations, labor unions, and other organizations were not willing to accept defeat. This is a shining example of what makes our community great. We see our future mission emerging from the foundations of our solid traditions.
However, United Way does much more than simply raise money through the generosity of its donors-it invests those dollars in programs that get good results. It demands accountability. It makes an impact. We see that as vital to our goal of maintaining the quality of life and improving people's lives.
Now that the economy is improving and the community campaign is on an upward path, our United Way is well positioned to be an even greater resource. By working together, we can build a better future.
We salute our many stakeholders: our volunteers who are the foundation of what we do; the United Way partner agencies who so professionally deliver their services to our community; the thousands of individual and corporate donors who address today's needs and tomorrow's challenges; our United Way staff who always go the extra mile to help us touch the lives of one out of every three people in our community; and our Board of Directors who provide caring and committed oversight, direction and support.
Allocations of Community Solutions Fund Dollars, 2009
In the future, community impact will be achieved through four impact areas. The three areas that remain continue to encompass all currently funded programs, while allowing for future growth. Historically, the trend for United Way's investments has concentrated primarily on providing basic human needs and crisis services. In looking to improve the future of our community, we must focus on providing lasting change instead of temporary fixes. This means taking our investment to the next level, focusing more on long-term sustainable change.
|
