Act locally: United Way’s dedication felt in countless lives

It is time for a little reminder about priorities.

Every year, we watch national pleas for money to help those in need. Many are from worthy causes and help thousands, if not millions, of people every year.

And there is nothing wrong with supporting those efforts. There is much work to be done and we must all join forces to get it accomplished — and money is often the first step.

But the problem is, sometimes in our zeal to be generous with others, we forget that there are people, right here, who need us, too.

And that is why we need to remember the United Way campaign.

The campaign theme, Portraits of Promise, is manifested in a series of photographs currently touring Wayne County.

In those photos, you will see men and women from across Wayne County who have donated to the United Way, along with the people who have benefited from the services provided by that donation.

You will meet a senior who looks forward every day to the warm meal and companionship a Meals on Wheels volunteer brings to her door. You will marvel at the courage of a young woman whose mother escaped an abusive relationship with the help of a domestic violence shelter. And they are just a few of the people whose lives have been changed by the services provided by one of the many organizations and programs funded by the United Way.

The lives of people of all ages are improved by the United Way and its partner organizations. From programs for youths to services for the needy, there is not a family in Wayne County who has not in some way been touched by this all-local effort.

Making the world a better place is a worthwhile goal, but focusing on improving the community in which you live is an even more important commitment.

Many of the people who are helped by local organizations through the United Way have nowhere else to turn for help. They cannot benefit from a national telethon or apply for a grant from a major foundation. They need you.

Consider becoming a part of the partnership that is the United Way. Join hands with thousands of Wayne County residents who know that compassion should begin at home.

By joining forces, we can make a difference in the futures of our neighbors. And that is a goal well-worth championing.

Published in Editorials on September 24, 2006 12:14 AM