BY JIM NIGRO, 2015 CAMPAIGN CHAIR
It’s not by chance that Midland is a special community, considered one of the best small towns in America to live. It’s not by chance that so many of us at one time or another has expressed, “Midland is a great place to raise a family.” No, it’s not by chance that Midland is unlike any town of its size. There’s a reason why Midland is so unique and it’s not about bromide or silicon. It’s about care and giving.
This little town of ours has a very big heart. Midland cares about helping others; Midland knows the importance of giving back. For 95 years now, United Way of Midland County has been a catalyst for that care and giving. Time and time again, Midlanders rally with gusto around the United Way’s annual campaign as they make their yearly contributions. In doing so, they know they’re making a difference in the lives of those less fortunate. They’re making Midland better, just as United Way does.
United Way of Midland County works to advance our common good by focusing on the building blocks for a good life: Education, Health and Self-Sufficiency. United Way engages people and organizations that have the passion and expertise to get things done and bring about positive, sustainable change. The dollars United Way raise in Midland stays in Midland. Community volunteers decide how funds are allocated. Only 8% of United Way of Midland County’s operating fund goes to administrative costs, comparing favorably to the national average of 13% for all non-profit organizations.
Most of us don’t need convincing to give to United Way. We see the results every day. Some of us have been helped by United Way, while a few of us will be in the future. One thing for certain is that ALL OF US, either directly or indirectly, benefit from United Way. And that’s precisely why every one of us should give to United Way, as a volunteer, an advocate for groups whose voices are silent, or, of course, by making a financial pledge.
Our town is a special place due to generations of care and giving cultivated by individuals and companies who call Midland home. United Way has been an integral part of Midland’s care and giving since 1920, and continues to be an excellent steward of dollars invested and services provided in our community.
Please don’t leave it to chance, please help keep Midland a cut above the rest by giving to the United Way of Midland County during this year’s annual campaign that ends October 31.
P.S. For those who have already given of their time, talent or treasure to United Way – THANK YOU, you guys rock!
