In 1859, Charles Dickens penned, “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times… it was the season light, it was the season of darkness, it was the spring of hope, it was the winter of despair.” These words are ringing truer than ever before in our current day as we reflect on the previous year, face the aftermath of crisis, and look towards recovery from the pandemic.
The pandemic has truly brought about the worst of times - a time of despair, hardship, and challenges never before faced by many of us in our lifetime. However, through this season of darkness, springs of hope have emerged, bringing light, caring, and a spirit of generosity that is unmatched.
Though the state of the world has been bleak, United Way of Northeastern Minnesota (UWNEMN) has experienced some incredible things during this time. We have connected with people - many whom have not been involved in our work prior - who have contributed large donations to help sustain and grow our work. We have seen companies commit not only to holding employee giving campaigns but to also contribute corporate support for our agency partners and programs. Kindhearted individuals in our communities have emerged, eager to volunteer and to lead fundraising efforts for UWNEMN.
It is remarkable to witness this outpouring of community support, especially in the face of so many challenges. It has also been incredible to be a part of UWNEMN this year; this organization has done its best to make positive changes under difficult circumstances! UWNEMN made up for campaign losses during 2020 by seeking new funding sources while also establishing a COVID-19 Crisis Fund, assisting individuals and buoying our partner agencies hardest hit by the pandemic.
The staff at UWNEMN never missed a beat. They remain positive, energetic, and on the pulse of community issues. Critical programs like Buddy Backpacks, Comforts of Home, Meet Up and Chow Down, Smiles United, and Imagination Library have remained steady, and the support of amazing partner agencies across our region has not wavered.
New efforts are underway, including Lunch Buddies Mentoring, a one-on-one mentoring program to be piloted in 2022 within three local elementary schools. A Veterans Wellness Passport initiative has also been created within the United for Veterans program to create a support system for local veterans and service members utilizing physical health related activities. UWNEMN is also addressing new and emerging issues such as youth mental health and continued concerns like increasing access to childcare.
UWNEMN has proven that they are the best of the best when it comes to local community impact. When you donate, volunteer, or support UWNEMN, know that you are a part of a shining example of service, connection, and unity. As you are thinking of your end-of-year giving or 2022 payroll deduction donations, consider UWNEMN. Your dollars stay local, your impact is tremendous, and you are helping to turn the worst of times into the best!
For more information, contact UWNEMN’s team at 218-254-3329, info@unitedwaynemn.org, or 608 East Drive, Chisholm MN 55719 – or click here.