At the threshold of 2020, I look back and realize I have now lived in Henderson County for almost five years. I love this place and am so grateful it is now my home. I have learned that this is a community of folks with big hearts. I have seen that people in the mountains take care of their neighbors. It is simply the Henderson County way. And I have become even more convinced of the importance of the work we are doing together through United Way.
I personally give to United Way because I know that I am brightening the world for Henderson County’s most vulnerable residents. I think of Margaret, a 91 year old woman whose son was threatening to take over her property and all her assets. With the help of a Pisgah Legal attorney, she was able to create documents that provided protection and respected her wishes.
I think of Paisley, the young frightened mother at Safelight’s shelter who had never been allowed to work because her abuser was so controlling. She completed the job training program, gained new confidence and skills, and is now interviewing for work.
Then there is Robert, who lost his job in November, just before the holidays. He and his wife were able to get nutritious food from one of the local pantries in Henderson County that is supported by MANNA. The couple told volunteers at the pantry that this food assistance to supplement their limited budget made it possible for them to have a family Christmas.
Your support matters, and there are tens of thousands of success stories here in our community that are made possible because of support to United Way from neighbors like you.
At the dawn of a New Year and decade, I think about what makes a successful life and what is really important during our precious time on this planet. As Ralph Waldo Emerson said:
To laugh often and much; … to appreciate beauty; to find the beauty in others; to leave the world a bit better whether by a healthy child, a garden patch, or a redeemed social condition; to know that one life has breathed easier because you lived here. This is to have succeeded.
Many thanks to all of you who have helped make our community, and our world, that much brighter.
Wishing you a happy and healthy New Year!
