I have two children. Both boys ages 4 and 8. Most of the time they're beautiful, sometimes they can drive me crazy. But all of the time I want them to think of their mom as someone they can be proud of. Anyone who has a child . . . whether that child is an infant or an adult . . . whether that child resides with them or another parent . . . knows what a special privilege it is to have a child look up to them. The best thing about first working for an agency that received United Way funding and then for United Way itself is that I can go home every night and feel like I do something that my boys can see as something worthwhile. They may not completely understand what United Way does, but the other day I heard my oldest explain to his cousin, "My mom makes sure people are okay." When each of us lives united, we all "make sure people are okay." Even an eight-year-old can see that!

Thanks for visiting the new United Way of Blount County website! As you will see, United Way is going beyond the role of "just a fundraiser". Actively promoting collaborations, sharing resources, and looking for new ways to strengthen our communities goes back to the original mission of the first United Way started in Denver over 100 years ago. Yes, we still need you to give and will keep campaigning for funds to support the amazing community partners our volunteers visit and audit every year. But we also need you to stand up and be a voice in your workplace, church and civic groups to say "we need everyone in Blount County to support the programs that help a family find permanant housing, that make sure EVERY 5-year-old is ready for school, that every senior feels safe in his or her home." You are the best advocates for our community. Additionally, your time and expertise is as valuable as your dollar. Studies claim that volunteers live longer, happier lives. I'm not sure if that's true, but I know how I feel after I've helped rebuild a house damaged in a tornado, or read to a child at an afterschool program. So . . . make your dollar count, make your voice heard, and make your time even more valuable to those in need. Live United.