Now, more than ever, nonprofit social services programs need United Way support to address the growing needs of the community. That’s why United Way has set an ambitious campaign goal of $1,350,000. To reach this goal, United Way is asking the community for their support.
“Mark and I recently hosted an event and had two parents provide testimonials on what the United Way means to them,” explained Kris O’Meara, 2013 Campaign Co-Chair. “The two are members of a support group for parents of heroin addicts. You could hear a pin drop in the room while they spoke, for I think many are in disbelief that Washington County has these types of problems. The presentation impacted the entire room, a prime example that that United Way provides much more than handouts.”
“We are hopeful the community will respond and give generously to the 2013 campaign,” stated Mark O’Meara, Co-Chair of local United Way Campaign. “You can increase your impact with your charitable donation by giving to the United Way of Washington County because your gift combines with others and can do more than any single gift on its own.”
Working closely with United Way, 22 partner agencies offer local solutions to meet community needs in three impact areas: Education, Income and Health. These are the building blocks for a good life for all – a quality education that leads to a stable job, enough income to support a family through retirement and good health. One in three people will use a United Way funded service sometimes in their lives. Last year over 25,000 individuals and families right here in Washington County received services through a United Way funded program.
“One of the greatest benefits to giving to the United Way campaign is that your donation stays local helping your family, friends and co-workers in need. United Way provides funding to critical health and human service community issues such as domestic violence, hunger, homelessness, youth development, services for those with disabilities, and services for seniors”, states Kristin Brandner, Executive Director of United Way of Washington County.
There is still time to make a donation to this year’s campaign and take advantage of campaign incentives: Any gift of $50 or more will automatically enter a donor in a drawing to win a 2013 Kia Rio. Any gift of $25 or more will automatically enter a donor in a drawing to win an iPad Mini.
“As the needs continue to grow in our community, consider being a part of the solution and joining Mark and me by giving generously. Together with your support, we can help more individuals and families in need.” stated Kris O’Meara.
The United Way of Washington County campaign runs until December 31. To donate, call 262-338-3821, mail to United Way of Washington County, P.O. Box 304 West Bend, WI. 53095 or online at www.UnitedWayofWashingtonCounty.org.