Dear United Way Friends and Partners:
As my time as United Way of the Greater Chippewa Valley Board Chair winds down, I’m reflecting on all that has transpired. It’s been surreal to say the least! Nothing like changing Executive Directors in the midst of a pandemic to add to the uncertainty and excitement. As I think about it all, one word comes to mind: “PROUD!”
I’m extremely proud of the UWGCV’s ability to quickly pivot as the pandemic unfolded and continue supporting our Program Partners and those in need throughout the Chippewa Valley. The Interim Executive Director Karen Hebert, our new Executive Director Andy Neborak, the entire staff, UWGCV Endowment Board, Board of Directors, Impact Councils, Campaign Cabinet, various committees and all of the many volunteers joined forces and worked tirelessly this past year to move work from office-based to home-based, to develop and implement the COVID Recovery Grants, to allow program partners flexibility in using funds and relaxing reporting timelines … I could go on and on. Bottom line, UWGCV was there living its mission to keep improving lives and building a stronger Chippewa Valley by bringing resources together to advance the common good.
I’m proud to pass the torch to our excellent Vice Chair Kyle Darley. I’m proud to remain part of the board as Past Chair and to be fortunate enough to continue being part of UWGCV and the impact work to improve the health, education, financial stability and basic needs of the Chippewa Valley.
I’m proud to work for Xcel Energy. They believe strongly in being a good community partner and encouraging employees to be part of boards, committees and community organizations. I also enjoy volunteering alongside my co-workers; from participating in the annual United Way Day of Caring to helping at food pantries and attending nonprofit fund raisers. I’m blessed to have a job that allows me to use my passion for helping others and giving back as part of my career.
I’m also proud of my family. The support my husband Pat and my boys provide allows me to be busy, to spend hours away from them volunteering and helping. And of my parents for setting the example early on in my life of what being part of a community really means.
I’m extremely proud of all of you … our donors and business partners. Without your generosity, none of this could happen. I hope you are proud as well. Proud of UWGCV. Proud of your contributions – of time and talent as well as financial. Proud of your community and all that happens to ensure it’s a wonderful place to live and work.
I leave you with a quote from Audrey Hepburn:
“As you grow older, you will discover that you have two hands — one for helping yourself, the other for helping others.”
