These stories brought to you by the United Way of Washington County in Wisconsin demonstrate how non-profit agencies are improving people's lives in Washington County.  Because of privacy issues, the names of the person who was helped has been changed. The donations raised during campaign will be used in 2009 to fund 34 programs offered by 19 United Way partner agencies that provide services to Washington County residents, here at home when it matters most. For ways to give, visit our website at www.unitedwayofwashingtoncounty.org.

Boys Scouts - Bay Lakes Council

Statistics say: • For 2009, United Way of Washington County allocated $30,200 to the two Boy Scout Councils in Washington County. • The Bay Lakes Council of the Boy Scouts projects that 850 of the 1150 Scouts in Washington County will advance at least one rank in 2008. The Potawatomi Area Council projects that of the 151 Cub Scouts it serves in Washington County, 136 or 90% will earn rank badges during 2008. • According to the Boy Scouts, boys that earn badges and advance in rank, build character, improve fitness, gain leadership skills, provide community service, receive citizenship training, and become more responsible and accountable. • The top Boy Scout rank of Eagle Scout requires the Scout to complete a service project. Your support of the United Way of Washington County provides funding to programs that make a difference in Washington County. Here is an example of a service project completed by one Boy Scout in order to earn his Eagle Scout rank. Because of privacy issues, the name of the individual involved has been changed. A service project not only helps a Scout develop leadership skills, it also enriches the community in which he lives. As "Justin" was working to achieve his Eagle Scout rank, he designed and led the construction of a skills or challenge course at the Camp Silverbrook Girl Scout Camp. The course was designed to help girls try new and exciting activities as they worked on teamwork, resourcefulness, trust and confidence in themselves and others. As part of the overall project, "Justin" oversaw the clearing of trees from an emergency trail to the campsites. His service project not only helped him become more responsible and accountable as he worked on his project from start to finish, it also provided growth opportunities for numerous Girl Scouts now and in the years to come.

Season of Giving, Christmas 2008

During this hard economic time, it is good to know that there are organizations in Washington County that are making this holiday season a little happier for those less fortunate. Here are five United Way partner agencies that are bringing joy and holiday cheer to families in need. For over 10 years the Youth & Family Project has helped families in need during the holidays. The "Gingerbread House" program connects families in need with other families and private and public community agencies that "adopt" a family and purchase presents for all family members. The agency also distributes food, clothing and toys to referred families that it receives from community drives. This year the Youth & Family Project expects to serve as many as 500 families. Tiny Tim's family received a surprise turkey for Christmas. In Washington County, the Full Shelf Food Pantry will distribute either a turkey or ham to each family they serve during the month of December. Families will also receive other food items to help make their holiday a nutritious and delicious one. Slippers, hats, mittens, scarves, afghans and lap robes - this year volunteers working through the Volunteer Center will make 1500 handmade items. These items are distributed to local nonprofit agencies so they can be given to the clients they serve, making both children and adults holiday season a little brighter. "Big" brother and sister mentors give the gift of their time not only during the holiday season but also throughout the year. In addition, Big Brothers Big Sisters is collaborating with two local churches to provide a wrapped gift to the 120 "little" boys and girls they serve. Each year the Family Center hosts a Holiday Bash for parents with children ages birth to 5. Families have the opportunity to decorate cookies, make season crafts, and have their picture taken with Santa. These are just some of the ways your donation to United Way supports programs that help families in need during the holiday season.

Boys & Girls Club Project Learn

Statistics say: • For 2009, United Way of Washington County allocated $25,000 to the Boys & Girls Club Project Learn Program • 14.2% of the children living in Washington County in 2000 lived in a single parent household (U.S. Census Bureau) • In 2008, of the 449 children expected to participate in Project Learn, an after-school homework program, over 75% are expected to increase their academic skill level Your support of the United Way of Washington County provides funding to programs that make a difference in Washington County. Here is an example of how the Boys & Girls Club's Project Learn Program helped one nine-year old boy improve in school. Because of privacy issues, his name has been changed. Because "Troy" was on medication, it was difficult for him to concentrate. He was rude at school, wasn't completing homework assignments or keeping up with his peers at his grade level. Once he started to come to Project Learn every day, that all changed. Staff at the Boys & Girls Club worked extensively with "Troy" to improve his manners. Every day "Troy" was greeted and his homework assignment book checked. Because of Project Learn, "Troy" is now up to his third grade level and doing the same level of work as other students in his class. He also gets his assignments in on time.

Senior Citizen Activities

Statistics say: • For 2009, United Way of Washington County allocated $14,500 to Senior Citizens Activities Center. • According to the U.S. Census Bureau, 15,295 of the residents in Washington County in 2007 were age 65 or older. • More than 5.9% of Americans age 65 and older suffer from some form of depression. One-third of widows/widowers meet criteria for depression in the first month after the death of their spouse, and half of these individuals remain clinically depressed after one year (Mental Health America). • According to the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, friends can help ease loneliness after the loss of a spouse. Hobbies may help keep your mind and body active. Regular exercise may also help prevent depression or lift your mood. Your support of the United Way of Washington County provides funding to programs that make a difference in Washington County. Here is an example of how the Senior Citizen Activities Center helped one person. "Sam" started to come to the Senior Citizen Activities Center after his wife passed away. He felt like a lost dog when he moved to West Bend after he sold their home and most of the treasured possessions he and his wife had collected over 52 years of marriage. The day he came to the Senior Center turned out to be the haven he was searching for. He made many friends and took part in many of the activities offered by the Center, including trips and other activities away from the Center itself. "Sam" starting volunteering both at the Center and at the Full Shelf Food Pantry. One of his more recent, big accomplishments? His election to the Senior Citizen Activities Center Board of Directors.

Full Shelf Food Pantry

Statistics say: • For 2009, United Way of Washington County allocated $19,050 to the Full Shelf Food Pantry, a 24.5% increase over the amount awarded for 2008. • According to U.S. Census data, there were 1,659 children under the age of 18 living in poverty in Washington County in 2005. • Poverty level for a family of four in 2006 was $20,500 (median income in Washington County in 2006 was $61,282). • This year Full Shelf Food Pantry distributed food to an average of 400 families each month but in October they served 480 families; 43% served were children ages 17 and under. Your support of the United Way of Washington County provides funding to programs that make a difference in Washington County. Here is an example of how children from two families were able to celebrate their special day because of the Full Shelf Food Pantry. Little Susie and Bobbie come from different, yet similar families. Both families are clients of The Full Shelf Food Pantry. Susie and Bobbie have one other thing in common – it’s their birthday was in the same month! Bobbie’s father had been laid off for three months. Bobbie’s mother told him he’d be getting a birthday present this year, but they wouldn’t have the money to buy the cake, candles, and colorful plates to have a birthday party with all of his friends. Can you imagine how happy Bobbie was when his mother came home from their monthly Food Pantry visit with a Birthday Box for him containing cake mix, frosting, candles, and bright red plates? She also had juice and some candy to add to his surprise! Susie’s mother is a single parent. Her mother also picked up a Birthday Box when she visited the Food Pantry. Because their stove didn’t work, she wouldn’t be able to bake the cake. The pantry has donated bakery items which Susie’s mother brings home several times each month. This time it included a decorated birthday cake – in pink to match the pretty plates in her Birthday Box. The Girl Scout troops in Washington County enjoy making the Birthday Boxes for children age 12 and under for the food pantry to distribute. Each month, at least six or seven children receive a Birthday Box to make their day very special.

Youth & Family Project's Healthy Families

Statistics say: • For 2008, United Way of Washington County allocated $29,200 to the Youth & Family Project’s Healthy Family Program. • A baby weighing less than 3 1/3 lbs is considered to have a very low birth weight. In Wisconsin in 2005, 1.3% of live births were very low birth weight. • As of mid-year 2008, Healthy Families staff had helped 42 families at risk learn to identify needs, set goals, and access additional sources of community support.Your support of the United Way of Washington County provides funding to programs that make a difference in Washington County. Here is an example of how one premature baby and his family were helped because of Youth & Family Project’s Healthy Families Program. He was born January of 2008, weighing only 2lbs 4 ounces. As a result of being premature, he struggled with many health concerns and was kept at St. Joe’s hospital in Milwaukee for 2 months. During this time, staff of the Healthy Families program became connected with his family, becoming a critical support for the baby, his young mother and extended family through advocating, staying in contact with nursing staff, and helping to secure a variety of services. When the baby came home, staff continued to work regularly with the family, referring them to additional resources in the community, such as Threshold’s Birth to Three Program. Because several surgeries were needed to ensure the baby’s healthy development, the family experienced financial difficulties and became homeless. The Transitional Housing staff worked with the family to secure permanent housing. While there were many struggles, with the help of Youth & Family Project staff and the wraparound assistance provided, the family is now stable. The child is doing well and is developmentally on track for his age group. Without the services provided, the family would certainly still be floundering and struggling today.

Lutheran Social Services' Adult Care Service

Statistics say: • For 2008, United Way of Washington County allocated $18,900 to the Lutheran Social Services' Adult Day Center Program. • As of mid-2008, 21 functionally and/or cognitively impaired adults were provided a service in a caring, safe environment during the day which allowed them to continue to live at home with a family member or caregiver. Your support of the United Way of Washington County provides funding to programs that make a difference in Washington County. Here is an example of how one woman gained a feeling of accomplishment, satisfaction and hope because of Lutheran Social Services' Adult Day Center Program. Although only in her 50's, Linda was wheelchair bound, legally blind, diabetic on dialysis for kidney failure and could hardly bear weight. It wasn't surprising that when she first came to the Lutheran Social Services' Adult Day Center she was depressed and angry about the unfairness of it all. As center caregivers continued to talk to Linda, they noticed her sense of well-being was improving. The therapy and personal attention she received gave her a feeling of accomplishment, satisfaction and hope. Although her physical abilities have not improved much, her decline has slowed down. And the overwhelming feeling of powerlessness has lifted, leaving her happier, more social and grateful.

Council on Alcohol & Other Drug Abuse's Intervention Program

Statistics say: • For 2008, United Way of Washington County allocated $33,439 to the Council on Alcohol & Other Drug Abuse's Intervention Program. • Between 2003 and 2007, 14 people died in Washington County because of drunk-driving related crashes. • As of mid-2008, 91% of the 84 clients working with the Council became engaged in a program to help them with an addiction. • By the end of 2008, the Council projects that 100 individuals concerned about a loved one’s use/abuse of chemicals will have increased knowledge of how their behaviors contribute to family problems. Your support of the United Way of Washington County provides funding to programs that make a difference in Washington County. Here is an example of how a family suffering from alcohol abuse issues was helped. Because of privacy issues the names of the individuals have been changed. Don came to the Council on Alcohol & Other Drug Abuse for help with his wife, Sue, who was abusing alcohol. Don was concerned because Sue, a stay-at-home-mom, was often drunk and passed out on the couch when their 6 and 7 year old children arrived home from school. Don didn’t want his children exposed to this anymore but was unsure how he could help his wife and keep his children safe. A counselor provided Don and other family members with information about addiction and prepared them to confront Sue. With the counselor present to guide, support and encourage, the family confronted Sue about her addiction. She agreed to enter an inpatient treatment program and then went to a halfway house for 3 months to ensure her recovery program was strong. Sue is back at home and involved in her children’s lives in a positive manner.

Girl Scouts Wisconsin Southeast

Statistics say: • For 2008, United Way of Washington County allocated $30,500 to the Girl Scouts Wisconsin Southeast. • As of mid-2008, 801 girls participated in activities to develop good decision-making skills. • By the end of 2008, the Girl Scouts project that 2236 of the participating girls (86%) will have improved at least 2 of 4 decision-making skill areas (possibility thinking, goal setting, independence, and ethical judgment). Your support of the United Way of Washington County provides funding to programs that make a difference in Washington County. Here is an example of a unique service project embarked on by 650 Washington County Girl Scouts. During any given week, children can be faced with unthinkable situations that turn their lives upside down. Whether it is a house fire, fleeing an abusive family situation, or hospitalized after a serious accident, children can lose their sense of comfort and security in an instant. To bring hope and comfort to area children in need, Washington County Girls Scouts decorated pillowcases and filled them with personal care items, new stuffed animals and items to help the recipient record his or her feelings. Under project "Good Night, Sleep Tight", Girl Scouts provided more than 750 decorated, filled pillowcases to organizations including Washington County Human Services Department, Friends of Abused Families, Salvation Army, Police and Fire and Rescue Departments, and the Red Cross. Not only did this project help children in crisis, the Girl Scouts experienced a sense of pride and joy.

Volunteer Center

Statistics say: • For 2008, United Way of Washington County allocated $31,779 to the Volunteer Center of Washington County’s Volunteer Connection Program. • As of mid-2008, Volunteer Connections had linked 802 volunteers with opportunities that matched their skills and interests. • 1,979 volunteer referrals were made in this time period providing a value to nonprofit agencies of over $611,800 they might otherwise had to spend by hiring staff to complete tasks. By the end of 2008, Volunteer Connections expects to have made matches that result in 2,914 volunteer referrals, a value of almost $1,300,000 to county nonprofits! Your support of the United Way of Washington County provides funding to programs that make a difference in Washington County. Here is an example of how Volunteer Connections was able to match one gentleman. Jeremy was an experienced volunteer in his early 60’s who was bored with how he had been helping. He wanted to use his talents and interests more fully. Two things that appealed to him were playing his guitar and working with the elderly. Volunteer Connections send out his referral to Cedar Communities and the Visiting Nurses Association. Both organizations contacted him within hours of receiving the referral and have been delighted with the special talents he shares! Individuals interested in finding volunteer opportunities that match their skills and talents can go to www.volunteernow.net or call the Volunteer Center at 262-338-8256.

Hebron House of Hospitality's Housing Support Services

Statistics say: • For 2008, United Way of Washington County allocated $34,900 to Hebron House of Hospitality's Housing Support Services. • Housing Support Services provided 985 nights of shelter in 2007 – 70% of these individuals secured affordable housing within 60 days of their shelter admittance. • Housing Support Services provided 16 families with rent assistance. • Four families enrolled in Housing Support Services Transitional Living Program. Your support of the United Way of Washington County provides funding to programs that help people who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless. Here is an example of how one family was helped by Hebron House of Hospitality's Housing Support Services. Because of privacy issues, the names of the people involved have been changed. Jenny needed help. Jenny was married and worked for years at a local factory to support herself and her husband with disabilities. Grief from her husband’s death was compounded by the shut down of the local factory and the loss of employment. Barriers such as limited job skills and being too young to collect her husband's pension or her own social security, Jenny found herself with no source of income, and struggling to make rent payments. Placing her belongings in storage with a friend, Jenny entered Housing Support Services shelter. Housing Support Services staff was able to link Jenny to community resources, assist her in finding part-time employment, and obtain low-income housing for older adults. In addition, they provided budgeting and household management assistance to ensure that once in her apartment Jenny would be able to maintain stable and secure housing. Since the beginning of the Housing Support Services Program, 4,200 people have received some type of assistance. Services offered include emergency shelter, referrals and information about alternate community resources, financial assistance to prevent eviction, budget counseling, and transitional housing assistance. Without Housing Support Services, what would have happened to Jenny? Thankfully we will never know – your support of United Way and programs such as Housing Support Services help lessen the fear of becoming homeless for many individuals in Washington County.

Friends of Abused Families

Statistics say: • For 2008, United Way of Washington County allocated $68,668 to Friends of Abused Families. • During the first 8 months of 2008, Friends provided 1,478 nights of shelter to 19 families (a 12% increase over the same time period in 2007). • Friends provided 1,712 hours of one-on-one counseling services for victims of domestic and/or sexual violence (a 51% increase over 2007). • Via a 24-hour crisis line, 679 individuals received assistance locating community resources, with safety planning and next step development for immediate crisis resolution. Your support for United Way of Washington County provides funding to programs that give individuals and families the resources, support, and confidence to recover from domestic violence. Here is an example of how one family was helped. After years of verbal, emotional, and mental abuse, Diana had enough. Following months of individual and group counseling and support from Friends of Abused Families legal program, Diana gained resources, built up her confidence and found the strength to file for divorce from her husband Peter. Diana and her ten year old daughter, Rachel, entered Friends of Abused Families Shelter in September of 2007 after Peter refused to leave their home. Upon entering shelter, Diana and Rachel worked to develop an immediate safety plan and identified their next step for crisis resolution. While residing in shelter, Diana continued with weekly individual and group counseling, and Rachel took advantage of the children's art therapy program. To ensure all of their independent living needs were met, the family and Friends' case manager worked closely with the Human Services Department, the Humane Society, a lawyer's office and the school system. In November of 2007, Diana was granted primary placement of Rachel. Diana has now moved out of town and is transitioning into a new job. Rachel is enrolled at a new school. Although they continue to work through the effects of the domestic violence they experienced, Diana and Rachel have the knowledge to prevent further violence in their home, what the elements of a healthy relationship are, and how to maintain an independent, strong family unit. Without your support of United Way of Washington County and Friends of Abused Families, individuals like Diana and Rachel would have had an even more difficult time coping with the violence in their home.

Threshold's Respite Program

A family in Washington County was blessed with a 4th child coming into this world in the spring of 2006. Their 2nd oldest child has significant and multiple disabilities. Respite, a Threshold program that receives United Way of Washington County funding, has helped this family not only bond with their newest child but also spend quality time with the all siblings in the family. Many times energy and focus are on the child with special needs and the siblings get pushed aside until later. Respite dollars have helped this family to spend time together as a couple and with the siblings while someone they know and trust care for their child with the developmental disability. Without this funding, a break like this from round the clock care of their child with significant needs would not be possible. Thank you, Respite, for strengthening families by enabling couples to take a break that will refresh them and provide quality time together and with all their children.

Donna Lexa's Community Art Program

"Joe", a young man with special needs suffered a breakdown that caused him to stop talking. As soon as his doctor determined that "Joe" was ready and able to participate in a group activity, his parents signed him up for art classes offered by the Donna Lexa Community Art Center. In addition to art instruction provided to peoples with disabilities, this United Way funded program also enables students to improve their social skills. Initially "Joe" sat alone and would only speak to his teacher in a very soft whisper. After a while one of the other students started working with "Joe" on making a mask. Another student started to refer to "Joe" as his buddy. Because of "Joe's" new friends and art teacher, he has learned how to handle his nervousness. In fact, he is now so comfortable with his art community that he will even stand up and dance during break. Thank you, Donna Lexa Community Art Program, for promoting self-sufficiency by enabling all people to participate in community art activities.

Family Center's Serving Children Ages 4-12 Program

Having two children later in life and becoming a stay-at-home mother after a 25+ year working career can be quite an adjustment. After she quit her job to stay at home and focus on her 2 and 6 year-old daughters, "Rosie" felt alone. That's when she discovered the Serving Families with Children Ages 4 - 12 Program at the Family Center, a program that receives funds from the United Way of Washington County. "Rosie" received information and support during parenting classes provided by the Family Center. She was able to get her questions answered and her concerns addressed both in and outside of class. "Rosie" reported that the parenting skills she learned were basic, understandable and relevant - and are already working in her house. Thank you, Family Center, for providing parenting classes that help to strengthen families.

Boy Scouts, Potawatomi Area Council

Earning his Eagle Rank, the highest rank in scouting, was always on of "Troy's" goals since he was a Tiger Cub in first grade.  "Troy" is a Potawatomi Area Council Boy Scout, a program supported by the United Way of Washington County. "Troy" learned many things on his scouting journey towards the Eagle Rank, including how to be a leader. "Troy" developed and directed a plan and managed groups of people to build panels for a hawk cage. He also taught other scouts how to safely use tools such a staple gun. As a Boy Scout, "Troy" learned many outdoor survival skills such as how to pitch a tent, start a fire, and purify water. The merit badges he earned taught him about many trades, job opportunities, and hobbies. He also feels that living by the Scout Oath and Law has and will help him become a better person. Thank you, Potawatomi Area Council Boy Scout's Comprehensive Youth Development Program, for helping develop successful children and youth.

Youth & Family Project's Runaway Program

"Sandy" was 16 when she initially contacted the Runaway Program at the Youth & Family Project. She was in crisis, struggling with self-identity and purpose after living through a series of sexual assaults. The Runaway Program, supported by the United Way of Washington County, provides advocacy and crisis intervention services for runaway and youth in crisis between the ages of 12 and 17 in Washington County. While working with a program counselor, "Sandy" was able to sort through feelings of hurt, self-blame, shame and hopelessness to find the strength to remember and eventually report the sexual assaults. These assaults had occurred when "Sandy" was between 12 and 15 years of age by a male, adult family member. After making these reports, "Sandy's" persona began to reflect a higher level of self-esteem, self-care and a revival of dreams for the future. Thank you, Runaway Program, for helping teenagers develop into successful people instead of becoming just another runaway.

American Red Cross' Armed Forces Emergency Services

Imagine what it would be like to be in the military in Iraq, Afghanistan, or anywhere overseas and not know that a loved, family member was sick or dying. In 2005, this is something nine military men and women in Washington County did not have happen because of the Armed Forces Emergency Services Program of the American Red Cross - Southeastern Wisconsin. "Sara" is one of the people they helped. While "Sara" was stationed in Hanau, Germany, her grandmother suffered multiple strokes and the reoccurrence of polio symptoms - she was dying. "Sara's" father contacted the Red Cross, asking them to notify military authorities of grandmother's deteriorating condition. After verifying an emergency existed, the Red Cross, who receives funding from the United Way of Washington County, helped facilitate the servicewoman's return to West Bend so that she could say goodbye to her grandmother. Thank you, Armed Forces Emergency Services, for making good things happen by supporting military families in Washington County.

Threshold's Respite Program

Imagine never being able to go out to eat or a movie or bowling with your spouse.  This doesn't have to happen to family members of a child or adult with special needs living at home because of the Respite Program administered by Threshold. Caring for someone with a special need at home instead of placing them somewhere else is a loving choice made by many parents. Regardless of the amount of love, this type of choice can lead to marital stress and a higher risk of abuse and neglect if these family members never get a periodic break. Respite, a program supported by the United Way of Washington County, is a supportive service that gives caregivers time for themselves to revitalize and gain new perspectives. As one family receiving respite services reported, "Time to talk with my spouse, enjoy dinner or a movie or just run errands makes our lives less stressful, helping us to be better parents." Thank you, Respite, for strengthening families by enabling caregivers to have some time of their own.

Citizen Advocacy

Moving into your first apartment and struggling with a budget is a challenge for most people.  It can be particularly challenging for people with developmental disabilities. Citizen Advocacy, a United Way of Washington County funded program, matches members of the community to advocate with a person with a developmental disability such as "Gregg". Since being introduced to each other two years ago, "Gregg" and his advocate "Frank" have accomplished a lot. "Frank" has been "Gregg's" mentor, and support. "Frank" includes "Gregg" in family meals, gets him out to go bowling and the movies, and stayed with him after he had surgery. When "Gregg" moved into his first apartment, not only was "Frank" there to help, but "Frank's" adult son and a friend helped, too. To "Gregg", "Frank" is just like a father because "Gregg" knows that "Frank" cares and will be there for him whenever he needs help or an answer to a question. Thank you, Citizen Advocacy, for helping build strong and healthy communities by offering individual solutions that enable people with developmental disabilities to be included in the community.

Big Brothers Big Sisters' Match Program

It can be hard to find enough "big brothers" for all the boys waiting to be matched with a volunteer mentor.  Because of this, the Match Program of Big Brothers Big Sisters provides activities for children waiting to be matched. "Sam" was a frequent participant in Big-for-a-Day activities of the Match Program that is funded by the United Way of Washington County.  Activities such as Halloween and Christmas parties, and a trip to Cedar Lake all helped "Sam" become more open and interact more with adults.  These activities also gave a new male volunteer the opportunity to see that he would be a good match for "Sam". Thank you, Match Program, for serving children by matching them with volunteer "big" mentors.