It's here! Time to “Care it Forward”...

In the spirit of National Volunteer Week, I’d like to announce something very exciting we’re starting here at United Way! Something we like to call “CARE IT FORWARD”. You’ll hear those three words a lot over the next little while. In fact, you’ll hear from me a lot over the next little while, and as those who know me well are fully aware, I love to talk.

Remember Day of Caring? Well, “Care it Forward” is our way of turning every day into a Day of Caring. There’s an old proverb that goes: "If you have much, give your wealth; if you have little, give your heart." Well, I have a big heart and if I could, I would change the world. Realistically, I know I can’t do that, but I can make a difference right here in my own community.

The goal of “Care it Forward” is to get you thinking about volunteerism and how you, too, can make a difference by lending a helping hand. Which reminds me, we’ve added two new awards to our Community Spirit Awards roster with the introduction of both individual and corporate “Care it Forward” awards. What do you think? Are you up to the challenge?

I invite you to follow me as I venture out over the next few months, volunteering my time and meeting some of the many individuals and organizations in our area that exemplify the true spirit of a community hero.

Come on, be part of the “Care it Forward” movement. Do a good deed and share your story with me. Who knows, I might mention you in my blog. I may even volunteer to help you out!

You can reach me on Twitter , Facebook, or via email at mlagrotta@uwaykw.org.

I look forward to meeting lots of fascinating people and learning more about what our community has to offer. First stop, the Volunteer Impact Awards Gala on April 12th. I can’t wait to be inspired by those who invest their time giving back to our community. Talk about your wise investors!

Until next time, keep caring it forward,

Meg