Note from Campaign Chair

As campaign chair, I am privileged to play a part in United Way’s efforts to make a lasting difference in the lives of our citizens. We have so much to be grateful for. We are fortunate to live in a community that understands the importance of helping others.

United Way of Southwest Alabama advances the common good within our community. We create opportunities for a better life for all and give hope to those who need it. There are several basic things that everyone needs for a good life: quality education that leads to a stable job, financial stability to support a growing family and sustain it through retirement, good health and access to support systems in times of need. Education, Financial Stability, Health and Essentials are the focused initiatives through which our United Way distributes funds to partner agencies that support these initiatives.

So how do we anticipate meeting the needs of our community? Certainly, we hope to retain our current donors and we hope that they consider increasing their 2012 pledge. We are also committed to increasing the number of organizations, businesses and individuals that give to the United Way.

Through more effective marketing and increased awareness, we want to reach more families and increase participation in this year’s campaign. Whether it is improving the lives of families, offering healthcare services to all age groups or improving self-sufficiency, the United Way provides funding to programs that enhance living conditions for many of our neighbors.

We must not let these tough economic times deter us from helping those in need. Someone you know or love may not need United Way services today; however, we all know that circumstances change and no one knows what tomorrow may bring. So in 2012, as in past years, we thank those who have given and those who continue to give. And we encourage even more of our community to embrace the motto: GIVE. ADVOCATE. VOLUNTEER.

Thank you,
Mike Saxon
2012 Campaign Chair