By Cameron Johnson

United Way Project coordinator

As the weather starts to cool down, things at the United Way of Mower County office heat up. By now I’m hoping that you have read in the paper, seen one of our billboards, received our residential mailing, or heard through one of the other many communications channels that we’re well into our campaign season.

One of the challenges we face this time of year is communicating what exactly we do — because it’s a lot. And unless you’re involved in the day-to-day operations it can get confusing. United Way funds programs, county-wide that fall under the areas of Education, Income, Health, and Basic Needs. This year, we’ve created icons to use on all of our materials that break down those four program areas. It is our hope that these program areas and icons will become synonymous with our organization.

United Way is the only local organization through which your donation can support and impact 57 programs at the same time. Through no other organization can you simultaneously support feeding hungry children on the weekends while helping individuals find gainful employment or providing services for survivors of violent crimes just as an example. If you haven’t yet made a donation to the United Way, consider making an end of year gift by contacting our offices at 507-437-2313.

On another note, this will be my last article on behalf of United Way of Mower County. I am transitioning out of the position of Project Coordinator. My decision to step down has nothing to do with my love for the organization, Mower County, or the work being done. My husband and I are starting a family and I have the opportunity to stay at home when our addition arrives. I’ve enjoyed my time working in Mower County and am anxious to see the outcome of this year’s campaign.