Forty three United Way volunteers on 6 different teams recently met with all the programs funded by United Way of Central Minnesota.
It was a moving experience to hear one story after another from people whose lives have been changed forever because of the generosity of United Way donors.
Here are a few …
A woman, widowed at a young age with two young children, got help for dealing with her own deep grief. She then decided to pay it forward. She has been a Life Transitions volunteer for 15 years and serves as a support group facilitator helping others who have lost people they love. She turned her pain into positive action.
An Iraq war veteran is now a Peer Mentor through Independent Lifestyles, facilitating support groups for veterans and for their families. We can never understand what he faced in his recovery from burns and broken bones from a bomb blast. But … we can see his commitment and passion put to work helping other veterans and the people closest to them.
A mom shared the experience of supporting her 19 year old daughter in her decision to give her infant son up for adoption. She spoke of the support she, her daughter and other family members received as they struggled through this decision. Pregnancy Counseling Program of Catholic Charities provided the ongoing listening ear, information and non-judgmental attitude. This child is now in a loving home and because of an open adoption will still be connected with the birth family.
These are only three of the stories. United Way funds 40 unique programs. Imagine this impact multiplied in people’s lives throughout local communities.
