Letter to the Editor

To the Editor:

Holiday Greetings from the United Way of Southwest Minnesota! I have the honor of serving as the board chair this year for this incredible organization. I joined the board 4 years ago, connecting to their mission to “Unite people and resources to improve lives and strengthen communities in Southwest Minnesota.” 
Many of us would like to give back to our communities and feel connected to the greater good of helping others. Through United Way, we’ve been able to identify where the needs are greatest in our communities to ensure that the programs, we are supporting are on point with what is going to help the most in our community.  
One of my personal favorite programs that United Way provides funding for is the Dolly Parton Imagination Library, that provides a book a month for free to children up to age 5 – having books in the home provide children with literacy, builds creativity and imagination, and encourages proper readiness for kindergarten.  
United Way also provides support and ensures the basic needs such as having enough nutritious food to eat and health by supporting organizations such as the Kitchen Table Food Shelves and Lutheran Social Services meals programs. The programs that we support ensure all in our community have resources to support them as they go through an unimaginable crisis, such as being a victim of sexual assault, domestic violence, or exploitation. 
I am writing this letter as we are in our annual campaign, and the need has never been greater in our community. Our community is strong and resilient because we collectively help each other, and we must continue to support each other. All dollars raised from our business and community members stays local for our programs. Please consider a donation to the United Way of Southwest Minnesota – help us expand the great programs in place to reach more individuals in need.

Donations are accepted via mail (UWSWMN PO Box 41, Marshall, MN 56258) or at our website www.UnitedWaySWMN.org. To donate now, please scan the QR code below.
 
For the convenience of our donors, we now accept Venmo (@UnitedWaySWMN.org) and PayPal (PayPal.Me/UWSWMMN).

We are also always looking for volunteers to help with the various programs that we provide for the community. If you are interested in volunteering your time, please visit the website and click on “Volunteer” to learn more.

Thank you and have a safe and wonderful holiday season!

Rachel Nuese
United Way of Southwest Minnesota Board Chair