“Joining Hands to Live United….

 Over the past two years, unemployment in Fairfield County has risen.  Declining revenue and resulting  job  losses have hit area non-profit organizations particularly hard, reducing their service capacity at the same  time that need for their programs has increased to record levels.  Erosion in the value of investment portfolios,  while rebounding this past year, has caused businesses, foundations and individuals to cut back on their   philanthropic giving.

I’ve selected this year’s campaign theme for a reason.   With signs of recovery in the air, it’s once again time for our community to “Join Hands to Live United.”   To the loyal supporters already Living United, your commitment is not only greatly appreciated, but again needed this year.  To past supporters who made a difficult decision to scale back participation during challenging economic times, please consider rejoining hands to once again contribute to the campaign.  To those who have not participated in the past, I ask you to consider what you, your friends and local organizations might gain from Living United – and how important your support is to our community.

Living United can come alive in many ways, including to Give, to Advocate or to Volunteer.  We can all play a role, and it is through our collective support that the lives of people throughout Fairfield County can truly be changed and lifted up.  My thanks and gratitude go out to our affiliated agencies and our grant agency recipients for the service they provide to individuals and families in our community during these tough times.  

Going forward, this year’s campaign will ensure resources are there for our affiliated agencies so they can do more of what they do, while advancing the common good through a focus on education, income and health in our community.

It is both my privilege and challenge to serve this organization during these times of significant need.   I am very honored to be this year’s campaign chair, because I’ve supported the work of the United Way for more than 20 years and believe in the excellent results so consistently achieved.  I believe in a strong Fairfield County community, and the generosity it has always shown to those in need.

In advance, thank you for Joining Hands to Live United!