Sharing “Stuff” with Others By Shari L. Marsh, Executive Director 11 December 2009

Sometime during our lives we have been taught that we should share with others. Most of us probably recall this lesson from a very early age when we were told to share our “stuff” with our siblings or playmates. At an early age this lesson seems rather hard to follow and can even feel a bit harsh. But as we get older and wiser we realize how wonderful it is to share your “stuff” with others. During this year’s annual United Way Campaign, the Board of Trustees, Campaign Volunteers, and Staff Members are asking our fellow Union County residents to share their “stuff” with others. The official mission statement of the United Way of Union County is “to bring neighbors and resources together to improve lives” this can also mean “sharing stuff with others.” Times are tough this year and an increasing number of Union County residents have either lost their jobs or had their paycheck reduced. This county has not been immune to the recession that our country has been struggling with for while now. People who have never thought they would be in financial straits are looking for help. While there are signs that better times are coming, there are many people in need of assistance at this time. That is why this year’s United Way of Union County fundraising campaign is so very important as the dollars raised in Union County stay in Union County to fund programs and services that help with immediate needs and address the underlying causes of social issues. It gives all Union County residents who have “stuff” the opportunity to share their “stuff” in a very meaningful way. Our Local United Way supports agencies that provide for the basic building blocks that improve the quality of life for all. Those building blocks include programs that address education, health and financial issues as well as those that are dedicated to helping people rebuild their lives. The 38 programs provided by 28 United Way member-agencies serving Union County have proven track records of success, as each is required to provide documentation that shows how they are helping our neighbors. United Way Volunteers are charged with reviewing each agency each year to ensure that every program is performing to meet its mission and serving a community need. During this fall’s fundraising campaign, Union County neighbors have the opportunity to reach out a hand and help each other by sharing their “stuff.” Stuff can be money, time, or other resources that will help make life better for all. Union County is blessed with great people who are willing to share what they have to help others with needs. There is a multitude of ways to help others and the United Way of Union County provides an easy way to help a multitude of needs with just one gift. If you are working in a workplace that conducts a United Way campaign you can give through payroll deduction every payday. If you work in a workplace that does not conduct a campaign, you can advocate to conduct one and contact the United Way office to help get one started. If you are self-employed or retired and would like to contribute and have not been solicited yet, please contact the United Way office to get a pledge form or donate online through the website (http://www.unitedwayofunioncounty.org/pledge.shtml). This year more than ever it is so very important that we share with others if we are able – not only will your sharing help those who are served, but you will be find joy in sharing your “stuff.” For anyone wanting more information regarding the United Way of Union County and to make a donation, please either visit the website at http://www.unitedwayofunioncounty.org/pledge.shtml, call 937-644-8381, visit the office at 232 N Main St in Marysville or mail at P O Box 145, Marysville OH 43040.