Reach out and help your community

With a struggling worldwide economy triggering challenges at the local level as well, United Way KW recently voiced concern and worry for our community.
  
At a time of increased demand for social services, forecasts show that only $4.9 million of the $6 million revenue goal set in September will be brought in through fall workplace campaigns. Our CEO, Jan Varner, recently told the media that there is “an overall downward trend in the funds pledged,” which is cause for concern.

Shelters and emergency services have only become busier as more individuals and families come to depend on them. Our local Food Bank is also experiencing an increase in families needing assistance and, unfortunately, a decrease in food being donated. These facts all point to one thing - our community needs our help.

We’ve all heard the saying “one person can make a difference,” but how many times have we ignored this sentiment or questioned if it’s actually possible? I know I have many times.

I never would have believed that I, one individual, could benefit my community. I’m just an ordinary youth living in the KW area. I shop at the same places as you. I eat at the same places as you. Heck, we might have even met.

Simply put, I now realize I couldn’t have been more wrong. I now know that I can make a difference, and so can you. I encourage you to take that next step. Don’t be a bystander at a time when our community needs your help. Be change, make change and see change by taking one simple action. Text UCHANGE to 45678 to donate $5 to United Way KW and help your community today. For more ideas on how you can help, visit http://www.uwaykw.org/.