Monday, December 15, 2008
Thursday, December 11, 2008
Learn to Knit
On January 15th from 1pm to 3pm we will be offering a "learn to knit" class. The class will be held in the conference room of the United Way offices (521 S Union) and will be instructed by one of our very own Afghan Angels.
If you are interested in attending please contact Michelle either by phone: 231-947-3200 x 201 or email: michelleg@Unitedwaynwmi.org. Space is limited so please RSVP as soon as possible.
If you are interested in attending please contact Michelle either by phone: 231-947-3200 x 201 or email: michelleg@Unitedwaynwmi.org. Space is limited so please RSVP as soon as possible.
'Tis the Season
The mission of the United Way of Northwest Michigan is,
"... to efficiently raise and effectively distribute financial and volunteer resources to support community-determined initiatives that improve the lives of community members."
Most people think this means the United Way does only three things: (1) raise funds (2) grant money (3) encourage volunteerism.
The reality is we do far more than raise and distribute funds and volunteer resources. We are actively involved with numerous initiatives that affect the lives of people in need. We are involved in the Community Collaboratives in each of the five (5) counties we serve. We are a part of established programs like the Poverty Reduction Initiative (PRI), Great Start and the Fresh Food Partnership. We are also trying to help the community create new ways to respond to old problems. We are a part of initiatives like the one trying to bring 2-1-1 to our area and to implement Food Rescue. We are a part of these efforts because they are, "community determined initiatives that improve the lives of community members."
Your support of the United Way goes beyond the grants that are given and the volunteers who are placed, it supports ideas and helps them become a part of the services on which people rely. The United Way is actively working to find ways to improve the lives of people throughout our community. Thank you for supporting the United Way in 2008. I hope we can count on your support in the year to come.
Best Wishes for a holiday season full of joy and happiness.
"... to efficiently raise and effectively distribute financial and volunteer resources to support community-determined initiatives that improve the lives of community members."
Most people think this means the United Way does only three things: (1) raise funds (2) grant money (3) encourage volunteerism.
The reality is we do far more than raise and distribute funds and volunteer resources. We are actively involved with numerous initiatives that affect the lives of people in need. We are involved in the Community Collaboratives in each of the five (5) counties we serve. We are a part of established programs like the Poverty Reduction Initiative (PRI), Great Start and the Fresh Food Partnership. We are also trying to help the community create new ways to respond to old problems. We are a part of initiatives like the one trying to bring 2-1-1 to our area and to implement Food Rescue. We are a part of these efforts because they are, "community determined initiatives that improve the lives of community members."
Your support of the United Way goes beyond the grants that are given and the volunteers who are placed, it supports ideas and helps them become a part of the services on which people rely. The United Way is actively working to find ways to improve the lives of people throughout our community. Thank you for supporting the United Way in 2008. I hope we can count on your support in the year to come.
Best Wishes for a holiday season full of joy and happiness.
Monday, November 17, 2008
Thursday, November 13, 2008
Volunteer... Volunteer... Volunteer
The numbers are in for the third quarter of the year. There are 431 Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP volunteers are 55 and better) volunteers in our data base who have given 8,029 hours to our nonprofits in Northwest Michigan! Great work!
The NW Michigan Food Coalition needs your help more than ever this year. Thanksgiving baskets are being prepared for the ever-growing number of families seeking help. Can you help? Check with your closest food bank to see what part you can play in disarming the growing crisis of hunger in Northwest Michigan. Join the 431 RSVP volunteers who are making a difference in our community!
The NW Michigan Food Coalition needs your help more than ever this year. Thanksgiving baskets are being prepared for the ever-growing number of families seeking help. Can you help? Check with your closest food bank to see what part you can play in disarming the growing crisis of hunger in Northwest Michigan. Join the 431 RSVP volunteers who are making a difference in our community!
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
We're going to be on TV!!
The United Way of Northwest Michigan's Volunteer Center is producing a new monthly television show on Up North 2 called "Giving Back...NWMI Style". Hosted by Susan McQuaid, the Center's Director, the show will look at volunteerism, nonprofits and philanthropy in Northwest Michigan.
The show will also highlight volunteers in the five county area, feature a community calendar of events, premiere videos about volunteering, and give you down to earth information and education on what's going on and how you can give back! The premiere of "Giving Back...NWMI Style", is Monday, November 17 at 7:00 pm. It will air again on Friday, November 21 at 9:00 pm and Sunday, November 23 at 7:00 pm.
The first show will take a look into the Volunteer Center at the United Way with guests Steven Wade, Executive Director, United Way of Northwest Michigan and Mari von Walthausen, Assistant Director of the Volunteer Center. It will teach you everything you ever need to know about volunteerism (or almost), show you the winning entries of our first ever "Live United" video contest, and give you some ideas on how you can give back this holiday season. Have an idea for a show, contact susan@unitedwaynwmi.org.
The show will also highlight volunteers in the five county area, feature a community calendar of events, premiere videos about volunteering, and give you down to earth information and education on what's going on and how you can give back! The premiere of "Giving Back...NWMI Style", is Monday, November 17 at 7:00 pm. It will air again on Friday, November 21 at 9:00 pm and Sunday, November 23 at 7:00 pm.
The first show will take a look into the Volunteer Center at the United Way with guests Steven Wade, Executive Director, United Way of Northwest Michigan and Mari von Walthausen, Assistant Director of the Volunteer Center. It will teach you everything you ever need to know about volunteerism (or almost), show you the winning entries of our first ever "Live United" video contest, and give you some ideas on how you can give back this holiday season. Have an idea for a show, contact susan@unitedwaynwmi.org.
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
Campaign Update
The Annual Giving Campaign is off to a phenomenal start with the help of many local workplace campaigns. Meijer blew the top off their campaign thermometer by reaching 147% of the store's $16,057 goal. The United Parcel Service has exceeded its employee and special events goal by 14.8 percent. Sara Lee Corporation’s Traverse City Bakery Facility raised 98% of the $40,000 goal within the first day of their campaign. Munson Healthcare reached an astonishing $45,000 one week into their campaign, on track to surpass their 2007 goal of $70,000.
"Munson Healthcare has a strong tradition of supporting its communities," said Amy Tennis, Munson's Director of Benefits and co-chair of the organization's Live United Campaign. "Our first week's response reflects the generous hearts of employees who understand that United Way funds go directly to help those who live in our neighborhoods."
The need for social services and the generosity of the community is greater than ever before. We encourage you to be an everyday hero; GIVE, ADVOCATE and VOLUNTEER. Give what you are able, volunteer your time and talents and advocate the LIVE UNITED message to your family, friends and neighbors.
Please visit the United Way website at http://www.unitedwaynwmi.org/ or call 947-3200 to host a workplace campaign, become an individual contributor or browse opportunities to volunteer throughout the community.
"Munson Healthcare has a strong tradition of supporting its communities," said Amy Tennis, Munson's Director of Benefits and co-chair of the organization's Live United Campaign. "Our first week's response reflects the generous hearts of employees who understand that United Way funds go directly to help those who live in our neighborhoods."
The need for social services and the generosity of the community is greater than ever before. We encourage you to be an everyday hero; GIVE, ADVOCATE and VOLUNTEER. Give what you are able, volunteer your time and talents and advocate the LIVE UNITED message to your family, friends and neighbors.
Please visit the United Way website at http://www.unitedwaynwmi.org/ or call 947-3200 to host a workplace campaign, become an individual contributor or browse opportunities to volunteer throughout the community.
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Volunteer Center
Volunteer Center
Survey says……….the 13th annual Day of Caring was a huge success! 130 teams of volunteers adopted 38 different Northwest Michigan non-profit agencies and organizations, giving back and enjoying themselves along the way.
Holding the event at the City Opera House was a hit. The Traverse City Central High School marching band and cheerleaders were riveting. Model A ford pickups held locally grown treats to feed us all, everyone contributing generously to our regional food drive and the sun coming up on a perfect day all made for an inspiring picture of a caring community, gathering together to do a day of service.
Go to www.unitedwaynwmi.org and click on the Volunteer Center Day of Caring to view lots of great pictures from the day. The winners of the survey drawing were: Emily Arbut from the Young Professionals Group, Julie Rice from Fawcett/Dopke Insurance Agency, Inc. and Wayne Wahr from Morse Moving and Storage, congratulations! Thank you to all who participated in or supported Day of Caring. We look forward to working with you connecting nonprofit and volunteers all year long!
Survey says……….the 13th annual Day of Caring was a huge success! 130 teams of volunteers adopted 38 different Northwest Michigan non-profit agencies and organizations, giving back and enjoying themselves along the way.
Holding the event at the City Opera House was a hit. The Traverse City Central High School marching band and cheerleaders were riveting. Model A ford pickups held locally grown treats to feed us all, everyone contributing generously to our regional food drive and the sun coming up on a perfect day all made for an inspiring picture of a caring community, gathering together to do a day of service.
Go to www.unitedwaynwmi.org and click on the Volunteer Center Day of Caring to view lots of great pictures from the day. The winners of the survey drawing were: Emily Arbut from the Young Professionals Group, Julie Rice from Fawcett/Dopke Insurance Agency, Inc. and Wayne Wahr from Morse Moving and Storage, congratulations! Thank you to all who participated in or supported Day of Caring. We look forward to working with you connecting nonprofit and volunteers all year long!
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Annual Giving Campaigns
Each year, beginning in September, United Way of Northwest Michigan runs its annual giving campaign.
Conducting a workplace campaign has become the traditional way many local businesses, government and nonprofits in our community offer their support. Encouraging philanthropy and providing employees with a way to contribute to the community in which they live and work.
United Way is great for business too. That’s because United Way helps build a strong and thriving community, making it easier to attract and retain employees and business opportunities. Running a campaign in your workplace to support United Way’s Community Fund helps build strong teams, boosts morale, and unites employees. Employees take pride in organizations that demonstrate social responsibility.
Let us help plan and implement a campaign at your workplace.
For more information about hosting a United Way campaign, please call 947-3200 Ext. 204 or email michellek@unitedwaynwmi.org.
Conducting a workplace campaign has become the traditional way many local businesses, government and nonprofits in our community offer their support. Encouraging philanthropy and providing employees with a way to contribute to the community in which they live and work.
United Way is great for business too. That’s because United Way helps build a strong and thriving community, making it easier to attract and retain employees and business opportunities. Running a campaign in your workplace to support United Way’s Community Fund helps build strong teams, boosts morale, and unites employees. Employees take pride in organizations that demonstrate social responsibility.
Let us help plan and implement a campaign at your workplace.
For more information about hosting a United Way campaign, please call 947-3200 Ext. 204 or email michellek@unitedwaynwmi.org.
Monday, October 27, 2008
From our Executive Director, Steve Wade
By now most of you have encountered the United Way’s new slogan “Live United”. Whether on a billboard, a t-shirt or on a television ad the Live United theme is spreading. Live United pass all the tests of a good phrase: It’s simple, catchy and easy to remember but what does it mean to live united? To me it means that we are a part of something bigger than ourselves.
Ubuntu is a word rooted in African spirituality which literally translated means, “I am, because we are”. It means we are all connected. We cannot be ourselves without community. Education, income, and health are always lived out among others and an individual’s well being is interdependent on the well being of others.
I hope you will take a few minutes to consider this concept. Discuss it with those who matter in your life. Ask yourself what it means to you and then ask, “How can I Live United?” For more information about the United Way and for ideas about how to Live United visit our website www.unitedwaynwmi.org or call the United Way of Northwest Michigan 231.947.3200.
Ubuntu is a word rooted in African spirituality which literally translated means, “I am, because we are”. It means we are all connected. We cannot be ourselves without community. Education, income, and health are always lived out among others and an individual’s well being is interdependent on the well being of others.
I hope you will take a few minutes to consider this concept. Discuss it with those who matter in your life. Ask yourself what it means to you and then ask, “How can I Live United?” For more information about the United Way and for ideas about how to Live United visit our website www.unitedwaynwmi.org or call the United Way of Northwest Michigan 231.947.3200.
Friday, October 24, 2008
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
10 things to avoid when sending enewsletters
Here are some great tips to consider when putting together an email campaign or a regular email newsletter.
read more | digg story
read more | digg story
Thursday, September 18, 2008
Understanding the Presidentail candidates
This site takes a look at both Presidential candidates and their views on a variety of issues. You decide which issues are important to you and which candidate you agree with. This site is in no way an attempt to sway your decision one way or the other. And, we are in no way endorsing ANY candidate, this is simply a tool for you to become a more informed voter.
www.votegopher.com
You can check out their welcome video on Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uTZxkhON1GQ
www.votegopher.com
You can check out their welcome video on Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uTZxkhON1GQ
Monday, September 15, 2008
VIDEO!!!
Our campaign video is finally done and posted on our website. We got some great shots of locals wearing the Live Untied t-shirts and Peterson Productions made a cool video for us. Its only about 4 minutes long, but has some fun music. Check it out and let me know what you think!
http://www.unitedwaynwmi.org/media.htm
Also, we are going to start doing a monthly or bi-monthly newsletter, so sign up! We wont fill your email inbox with a bunch of stuff you don't want. (I promise) http://www.unitedwaynwmi.org/events.htm
http://www.unitedwaynwmi.org/media.htm
Also, we are going to start doing a monthly or bi-monthly newsletter, so sign up! We wont fill your email inbox with a bunch of stuff you don't want. (I promise) http://www.unitedwaynwmi.org/events.htm
Friday, September 12, 2008
Day of Caring! SUCCESS!
The 13th Annual Day of Caring was a HUGE success. The new venue for the kick-off breakfast was fantastic.
Stay tuned for more updates and a LOT more pictures!
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
Need your Oil Changed?
September 1st through September 10th if you take a grocery bag of non-perishable food items to Traverse Motors they will give you a complete oil change for just $9.95!!!
All of the food that they collect will be given to the United Way of Northwest Michigan Day of Caring Food Drive, and will then be distributed to food pantries throughout Northern Michigan.
For more details check out our website: http://www.unitedwaynwmi.org/fooddrive.html
All of the food that they collect will be given to the United Way of Northwest Michigan Day of Caring Food Drive, and will then be distributed to food pantries throughout Northern Michigan.
For more details check out our website: http://www.unitedwaynwmi.org/fooddrive.html
Thursday, August 28, 2008
Food Drive
Can you afford a can of soup? Do you know how many people in our community CAN'T afford a can of soup? Now is your chance to help those less fortunate than you. September 11, 2008 we are having a food drive in the parking lot at the Chamber of Commerce. You dont have to bring a box of food or even a bag of food, we're not asking you to go grocery shopping and spend a bunch of money. But we all have stuff in our cupboards, some soup, peanut butter, noodles, etc. that we can afford to donate. So clean out your cupboards, your families cupboards, and your friends cupboards and bring your food donations to the big semi that will be parked next to the Chamber of Commerce building from 9am to 6pm on September 11, 2008.
Help feed your hungry neighbors!
Help feed your hungry neighbors!
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
Quote of the Day
Freedom is not worth having if it does not include the freedom to make mistakes.
-Mahatma Ghandi
-Mahatma Ghandi
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
12 Ways to give...
Feeling generous but strapped for cash? Don't feel guilty, get creative. Volunteer, donate your old cell phone or try one of these other no- or low-cash ways to give to charity.
By Erin Burt
(Click HERE for the full article)
When it comes to helping others, young adults are no slouches. On average, Americans ages 18 to 24 plan to give nearly $350 to those in need over the holidays, according to a recent Deloitte & Touche survey. That's more than they plan to spend on gifts for friends and family. And young adults ages 25 to 34 expect to give about $190 to charitable causes.
But what if you've caught the spirit of the season but you're low on cash? Take heart. Even with a budget feeling the squeeze from student loans, rent, high energy bills or other holiday expenses, you can make a difference without writing a check or charging your credit card. There are plenty of alternative opportunities available if you know where to look.
Twelve ways to give:
1. Clean out your closet
2. Volunteer
3. Hold a cyber garage sale
4. Donate your old cell phone
5. Give new life to an old computer
6. Shop for a Cause
7. Click your support
8. Donate your frequent flier miles
9. Buy extra groceries
10. Be a kid again
11. Give Blood
12. Get a haircut.
Do your homework
However you choose to give, it's important to check out the charity first to make sure it is legitimate and that your money, goods or services will be used to the fullest potential. You can research an organization online through the American Institute of Philanthropy, Better Business Bureau, Charity Navigator or GuideStar. Learn more about these rating guides and what to look for when evaluating a charity.
By Erin Burt
(Click HERE for the full article)
When it comes to helping others, young adults are no slouches. On average, Americans ages 18 to 24 plan to give nearly $350 to those in need over the holidays, according to a recent Deloitte & Touche survey. That's more than they plan to spend on gifts for friends and family. And young adults ages 25 to 34 expect to give about $190 to charitable causes.
But what if you've caught the spirit of the season but you're low on cash? Take heart. Even with a budget feeling the squeeze from student loans, rent, high energy bills or other holiday expenses, you can make a difference without writing a check or charging your credit card. There are plenty of alternative opportunities available if you know where to look.
Twelve ways to give:
1. Clean out your closet
2. Volunteer
3. Hold a cyber garage sale
4. Donate your old cell phone
5. Give new life to an old computer
6. Shop for a Cause
7. Click your support
8. Donate your frequent flier miles
9. Buy extra groceries
10. Be a kid again
11. Give Blood
12. Get a haircut.
Do your homework
However you choose to give, it's important to check out the charity first to make sure it is legitimate and that your money, goods or services will be used to the fullest potential. You can research an organization online through the American Institute of Philanthropy, Better Business Bureau, Charity Navigator or GuideStar. Learn more about these rating guides and what to look for when evaluating a charity.
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Food Drive
One Day
One Truck
One Truck
One Goal...
FILL IT UP!
As part of our Day of Caring we are going to be having a food drive. Our goal is to fill a 27' truck with non-perishable food items in just 9 hours!! You can drop off food to us here at our office any time between now and September 11 (521 S Union) or you can bring your food to the truck on September 11 from 9 am to 5pm, it will be parked in the parking lot next to the Chamber of Commerce.
Our community food banks cupbards are very bare and with winter just a few months away they need all of our help. So please help us help them.Monday, July 28, 2008
Today's Quote
With last friday's death of Randy Pausch, I decided to watch his "Last Lecture" video again on YouTube. It seems that each time I watch it I take away something different. What I got out of it on friday, was this quote, "Experience is what you get when you didn't get what you wanted."
RIP Professor Pausch
Oct. 23, 1960 - July 25, 2008
RIP Professor Pausch
Oct. 23, 1960 - July 25, 2008
Friday, July 25, 2008
And we're off....
FINALLY! Our new website is up and running. Check it out: www.unitedwaynwmi.org there may still be a few bugs here and there, but we'll work those out. Tell us what you think, we would love to hear some feedback on the new look.
Have a GREAT weekend!!
Have a GREAT weekend!!
Monday, July 21, 2008
Today's Quote
"Our lives begin to end the day we are silent about things that matter."
-Martin Luther King
-Martin Luther King
Friday, July 18, 2008
Quote of the Day
Every once in a while I come across a quote that makes me think "Yeah, thats it!". So I am going to start sharing them with you.
Here is todays:
"We make a living by what we do, but we make a life by what we give"
-Winston Churchill
Think about it!!!
Here is todays:
"We make a living by what we do, but we make a life by what we give"
-Winston Churchill
Think about it!!!
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
Register to Vote
Don't forget to register to vote, click the Rock The Vote Icon to get yourself registered.
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Monday, July 14, 2008
Our new Leader!
We have officially named our new Executive Director, he is (drumroll please) Steve Wade! Steve is 41 and moved to the area 8 years ago from Charleston, WV, and has been with Grace Episcopal Church as their lay ministry coordinator since 2001.
Steve earned a degree in social work in 1988 from Shepherd College, now Shephered University, in West Viriginia. In his career, Steve has worked with teenage and single parents, as a hospital social worker, for a nursing home trade association, and for a festival "not dissimilar from the Cherry Festival." He says his leadership style centers on collaboration and problem-solving. "It is not a dictatorial style. It is not an authoritarian style," he said "the primary thing that I am going to do is listen."
We're all excited to have Steve come aboard and look forward to working with him.
Steve earned a degree in social work in 1988 from Shepherd College, now Shephered University, in West Viriginia. In his career, Steve has worked with teenage and single parents, as a hospital social worker, for a nursing home trade association, and for a festival "not dissimilar from the Cherry Festival." He says his leadership style centers on collaboration and problem-solving. "It is not a dictatorial style. It is not an authoritarian style," he said "the primary thing that I am going to do is listen."
We're all excited to have Steve come aboard and look forward to working with him.
Tuesday, July 8, 2008
Phase II
Phase II of the Challenge
We didn't do so well in the first phase of the United Way Facebook Challenge, but that is behind us now and we are on to Phase II. Phase II has a better opportunity for more United Way's to win money. In this phase not only do we need people to join our Cause but we need all the people IN the cause to start recruiting more people. So please click on this link and join us today.
Are you wondering what our Cause even is?? Give one hour...Change a Life is all about volunteering. There are hundreds of volunteer opportunities in our community, and you are sure to find something that meets your interests. Even if you only have one hour a week, or one hour a month, there is someone that could use your help.
Getting started is easy, you can call us at 231-947-3200 x 206 or you can visit us on the internet at StartHereStayNear or you can go to our Volunteer Center Matching datasbase at our Online Volunteer Matching Service. We will be happy to help you find the perfect volunteer opportunity for you.
We didn't do so well in the first phase of the United Way Facebook Challenge, but that is behind us now and we are on to Phase II. Phase II has a better opportunity for more United Way's to win money. In this phase not only do we need people to join our Cause but we need all the people IN the cause to start recruiting more people. So please click on this link and join us today.
Are you wondering what our Cause even is?? Give one hour...Change a Life is all about volunteering. There are hundreds of volunteer opportunities in our community, and you are sure to find something that meets your interests. Even if you only have one hour a week, or one hour a month, there is someone that could use your help.
Getting started is easy, you can call us at 231-947-3200 x 206 or you can visit us on the internet at StartHereStayNear or you can go to our Volunteer Center Matching datasbase at our Online Volunteer Matching Service. We will be happy to help you find the perfect volunteer opportunity for you.
Monday, June 30, 2008
Thank You and Good Night!
Friday June 27th was our Executive Director, Pam Prairie's, last day with us. She is headed into the wonderful world of retirement. Pam has been with us for a little over two years and has worked very hard for United Way of Northwest Michigan, and made great strides towards improving our fund raising efforts and our over-all community presence.
Thank you Pam for all you have done!
Thank you Pam for all you have done!
Monday, June 23, 2008
United Way Facebook Challenge
The United Way Facebook Challenge has officially started. We have until June 28th to recruit as many members as possible to join our Cause that we have created on Facebook. So PLEASE click this link and join and then send to ALL of your friends to join.
http://apps.facebook.com/causes/59596
Help win $50,000 in total grants for your cause and United Way. The United Way Challenge is divided into three parts:
Part One: Invite
When: June 21, 2008 - June 28, 2008
The Cause that adds the most members wins $2,500 for their local United Way and young adult programs. Second place gets $1,500 and third gets $1,000.
Part Two: Mobilize
When: June 29, 2008 - August 31, 2008
Causes with the most activity will split $10,000 in grants for their United Way. Details to be announced.
Part Three: Activate
When: September 1, 2008 - October 31, 2008
The causes with the top Day of Action events will split $35,000 in grants for their United Way. Details to be announced.
http://apps.facebook.com/causes/59596
Help win $50,000 in total grants for your cause and United Way. The United Way Challenge is divided into three parts:
Part One: Invite
When: June 21, 2008 - June 28, 2008
The Cause that adds the most members wins $2,500 for their local United Way and young adult programs. Second place gets $1,500 and third gets $1,000.
Part Two: Mobilize
When: June 29, 2008 - August 31, 2008
Causes with the most activity will split $10,000 in grants for their United Way. Details to be announced.
Part Three: Activate
When: September 1, 2008 - October 31, 2008
The causes with the top Day of Action events will split $35,000 in grants for their United Way. Details to be announced.
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
Flood Recovery Fund Established
UNITED WAY 2008 MIDWEST FLOOD RECOVERY FUND ESTABLISHED
Funds Will Support Long-Term Recovery Efforts in States Devastated By Recent Floods
Alexandria, VA (June 16, 2008) — United Way today announced the creation of the United Way 2008 Midwest Flood Recovery Fund to support long-term recovery and rebuilding efforts throughout the Midwest states that have been devastated by the recent floods. Seven states have been severely impacted, with thousands of people evacuated and untold destruction to homes and businesses.
“United Way is committed to the mid- and long-term needs of the communities affected by this disaster,” said Brian A. Gallagher, president and CEO of United Way. “We intend to be a constant and very visible partner to the individuals and families of this region in their efforts to rebuild their lives.”
The focus of the United Way 2008 Midwest Flood Recovery Fund will be to support the rebuilding of lives and communities. Projects may include ensuring quality education, improving the financial stability of those affected and improving access to health care, including mental health services for those affected by the tragedy. United Ways throughout the affected states will work together, and with community partners and volunteers, to develop strategies to address the long term needs of the communities affected.
United Way also takes a leadership role in ensuring the strength of 2-1-1, a three-digit number that can be dialed for people who need services or for those who want to offer help. Thousands of people in the region are getting connected with the services they need through 2-1-1, such as finding temporary shelter. 2-1-1 provides an invaluable service in times of crisis, providing maximum community access to critical resources and information to help reduce the harmful effects of the disaster.
United Way’s community partnerships will be critical to the long-term recovery efforts. United Way is a member of both the Coordinated Assistance Network (CAN), formed to coordinate relief efforts in the wake of natural disasters, and the Major Relief Agency Consortium (MRAC) co-chaired by American Red Cross and United Way. Within this network, the initial response to disasters is led by the American Red Cross while United Way takes the lead in long-term recovery. Red Cross and United Way are joined by partners such as Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (VOAD), Alliance of Information and Referral System (AIRS), Salvation Army, FEMA and many others in this critical work.
People who live in the region and want to volunteer to help with flood relief efforts are being encouraged to register at the United Way of Central Iowa's Web site, www.unitedwaydm.org, or to call 2-1-1. United Ways in the Midwest are not looking for volunteers from outside the region at this time.
Financial donations can be made by credit card online at www.liveunited.org, or by phone at 1-866-404-5826. Checks can be mailed to United Way, c/o One World Communications, 5195 Hamstead Village Way, Suite 135, New Albany, OH 43054. Checks should be made out to United eWay and include "United Way 2008 Midwest Flood Recovery Fund" on the memo line. Questions about the fund can be directed to 1-866-404-5826.
Funds Will Support Long-Term Recovery Efforts in States Devastated By Recent Floods
Alexandria, VA (June 16, 2008) — United Way today announced the creation of the United Way 2008 Midwest Flood Recovery Fund to support long-term recovery and rebuilding efforts throughout the Midwest states that have been devastated by the recent floods. Seven states have been severely impacted, with thousands of people evacuated and untold destruction to homes and businesses.
“United Way is committed to the mid- and long-term needs of the communities affected by this disaster,” said Brian A. Gallagher, president and CEO of United Way. “We intend to be a constant and very visible partner to the individuals and families of this region in their efforts to rebuild their lives.”
The focus of the United Way 2008 Midwest Flood Recovery Fund will be to support the rebuilding of lives and communities. Projects may include ensuring quality education, improving the financial stability of those affected and improving access to health care, including mental health services for those affected by the tragedy. United Ways throughout the affected states will work together, and with community partners and volunteers, to develop strategies to address the long term needs of the communities affected.
United Way also takes a leadership role in ensuring the strength of 2-1-1, a three-digit number that can be dialed for people who need services or for those who want to offer help. Thousands of people in the region are getting connected with the services they need through 2-1-1, such as finding temporary shelter. 2-1-1 provides an invaluable service in times of crisis, providing maximum community access to critical resources and information to help reduce the harmful effects of the disaster.
United Way’s community partnerships will be critical to the long-term recovery efforts. United Way is a member of both the Coordinated Assistance Network (CAN), formed to coordinate relief efforts in the wake of natural disasters, and the Major Relief Agency Consortium (MRAC) co-chaired by American Red Cross and United Way. Within this network, the initial response to disasters is led by the American Red Cross while United Way takes the lead in long-term recovery. Red Cross and United Way are joined by partners such as Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (VOAD), Alliance of Information and Referral System (AIRS), Salvation Army, FEMA and many others in this critical work.
People who live in the region and want to volunteer to help with flood relief efforts are being encouraged to register at the United Way of Central Iowa's Web site, www.unitedwaydm.org, or to call 2-1-1. United Ways in the Midwest are not looking for volunteers from outside the region at this time.
Financial donations can be made by credit card online at www.liveunited.org, or by phone at 1-866-404-5826. Checks can be mailed to United Way, c/o One World Communications, 5195 Hamstead Village Way, Suite 135, New Albany, OH 43054. Checks should be made out to United eWay and include "United Way 2008 Midwest Flood Recovery Fund" on the memo line. Questions about the fund can be directed to 1-866-404-5826.
Friday, May 23, 2008
New Camapign
A HUGE thank you to Bill Marsh for running their first ever workplace campaign.
In these strained economic times its hard for people to give back to the community financially. The employees at Bill Marsh stepped up and donated a lot of their hard earned money to the United Way Community fund. Every dollar makes a difference and the dollars donated by Bill Marsh employees are very much appreciated and will be put to good use right here in our community.
Thank You! Thank You! Thank You!
Friday, May 16, 2008
Live United Video Contest
What does it mean to Live United? What does Volunteering mean to your community? What do you or your friends or someone you know, do to make a difference?
These are the types of questions that should be answered in the video you submit to our Live United Video contest. The videos shold be a maximum of 5 minutes. Entry forms can be obtained by visiting our website http://www.unitedway.tcnet.org/, click on Volunteer Center and then click the Video Contest link for the form. The theme of the contest is centered on how volunteerism impacts Northwest Michigan and how giving back to your community makes a difference.
The contest is open to anyone aged 13 -19 and the deadline for submission is August 1st. For more information please contact Susan McQuaid at 947-3200 x 20.
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
Citizen Action Team
We are just starting our second grant award process, the Sustainability Grants. If you are interested in being part of our Citizen Action Team contact our office, visit http://www.unitedway.tcnet.org/ for contact information.
What is the Citizen Action Team? The Citizen Action Team (CAT) is made up of volunteer members from the community who read all of the grant applications that we receive. Then they attend a one (or two) day interview session, where each agency applying for a grant comes in and goes through a 20 minute question and answer session. After all the interviews are completed the CAT Team then decides which agencies get grant money and which do not.
The CAT Team plays a major role in all of our grant funding, as they are the ones who decide which agencies we fund and which we dont. So if you're interested post a comment here and someone from our office will contact you right away.
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
Day of Caring
Its official! Get your teams together! The 13th Annual United Way of Northwest Michigan Day of Caring will be on September 11, 2008. This year we will have a change of venue and be gathering at 8am downtown at the City Opera House for breakfast. We'll have some entertainment by 3 local high school marching bands. Then its off to do your good deeds! Stay tuned, as we'll be posting more information as the day draws near.
Monday, May 5, 2008
The Photos
The slideshow posted on May 2nd is of pictures of people in our community who do good things! We (United Way of Northwest Michigan) would like to give a HUGE thank you to the photographer, Lindsay Hendrickson of Kudoz Photography, for donating her time and talents to our all day photo shoot.
Thank you also to everyone who participated, we truly appreciate you.
Thank you also to everyone who participated, we truly appreciate you.
Friday, May 2, 2008
Monday, March 24, 2008
Pay it Forward
As a part time job I waitress a few nights a week. On Good Friday a gentleman came into the restaurant by himself, he was probably in his late 20's early 30's, clean cut, quiet, and very polite. He sat at a table by himself next to a young family. The young family had a son who was probably 7 years old and they also had a 3 month old daughter. When the single man was done eating I gave him his bill and he stood up and pulled me aside and said he wanted to pay the bill for the family sitting next to him. I asked if he knew them and he said, "No, I am just paying it forward". After he left I told the family what he had done and they were shocked and amazed. The rest of their meal they kept talking about what a nice thing to do that was. When they were done eating they came to me and said they wanted to pay for the meal of the couple sitting next to them, and they said that every once in a while when they go out to dinner they are going to buy some unsuspecting persons meal. After they left I was cleaning up the tables and both the single man and the family left me VERY nice tips. So I decided that I am going to use that money to pay it forward to someone else. Everyone in the restaurant, employees and patrons, were talking about what had just occured and all were amazed and motivated to do the same thing. One simple gesture by an assumming stranger prompted a restaurant full of people to go out and do something kind for a complete stranger.
When you give to United Way you are in a sense paying it forward। The money you donate to us, no matter how big or small, is in turn given to local agencies. Those agencies then use the money to help people in need in our community, either through special programs, food, shelter, clothing, or healthcare. A small gesture can make a big difference in someone else's life.
Thursday, March 6, 2008
Calling all volunteers!
Just a quick note for our very first Blog...
We're looking for volunteers of all ages to help area nonprofits with various projects. Check out our website at www.StartHereStayNear.com to get started on your path of good deeds. You can also go to www.1-800-volunteer.com to sign up to be a community volunteer.
Stay tuned, we'll be posting again soon!
We're looking for volunteers of all ages to help area nonprofits with various projects. Check out our website at www.StartHereStayNear.com to get started on your path of good deeds. You can also go to www.1-800-volunteer.com to sign up to be a community volunteer.
Stay tuned, we'll be posting again soon!
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