Every day you wake up, you live a life constantly surrounded by people. Some of these people may be loved ones whom you know inside and out, but the vast majority of people that you encounter in your day-to-day life are complete strangers.
They wait in line with you at the coffee shop or sell you food at the grocery store or pass you by on the street. The truly astonishing fact is that every single one of those people has a unique story to tell — some would inspire you or make you smile, while others may break your heart.
For all you know, that person at the store the other day may have a spouse at home battling a life-threatening illness; or that person who cut you off in traffic may have no clue they put you in danger due to the abusive spouse waiting for them at home; or perhaps the person who gave you the widest smile while passing you by today, in fact had nowhere to even call home that night.
The point is, you never know who needs help. Countless people right here in our community, people you come across every day, need you. It would be an unreasonable task to undertake alone: How could you possibly be expected to know and empathize with these seemingly countless stories? You're only one person after all, and you have a unique story of your own to play out.
So again, how can you make an impact? How can you reach out to a person, let alone many, when you have no clue who they are or what they even need?
That's why you give to United Way, because we know all about these people and we passionately endeavour to get them the help they need. Don't be mistaken though, even our organization could never accomplish this alone. If it weren't for our partners and programs to whom we provide funding, none of this would be possible.
That's why we place the utmost importance on the relationships we have with all who support us in our efforts, and greatly value those agencies we support in turn, as the nature of their work is indescribable with words. Perhaps though, it can be described by observing the impact it can have on our community, our home.
In 33 years, United Way has invested more than $40 million into our community. All of these funds, which are raised locally, stay within our community and are then allocated to partner agencies who work tirelessly to help those in need: from our neighbours, our friends and families, our loved ones, and even our strangers. These organizations operate more than 40 unique programs and initiatives, which work in tandem to serve an array of individuals who need something more from our community.
Poverty, homelessness, domestic violence, sexual abuse, child abuse, social and cultural acceptance, physical and mental health, and so many more social and economic issues — these are the harsh realities we can change for people.
That's the advantage of being involved with so many partners and volunteers: The diversity of needs that can be met by a shared initiative, a united campaign, is something to marvel at. By moving people from poverty to possibility, by helping kids be all they can be and by building a strong community for ourselves, we end up telling one magnificent, collective story.
It truly shows us that together, we can have a powerful and efficacious impact on people and build a brighter future. It shows us that together, we are possibility.
United Way is a major funding organization that delivers ongoing support to social service agencies through its Community Fund, supporting a network of programs and services.