Dear Editor,

It seems that it just got started but there you go, another year has gone. And what a year we have had, many ups and downs for our community. It has certainly been a big year for United Way. We surpassed last year’s campaign total, and we made huge investments in our community. This year promises to be another great year of working to make our community a better place.

But we cannot do the work that needs to be done alone. We have to have so many of you pulling together to make our area grow. We cannot be discouraged by the bad news we experience. We cannot let negativity take over. I know sometimes I feel like the little Dutch boy sticking my finger in leaks. Always just barely averting a flood, but I know I am not alone there are so many others working each day to help our community.

I am lifted up every time I visit one of our agency partners, and I see the great work they are doing. I am lifted up when I see the younger generations coming together to bring great events to our city. I am lifted up when I see babies at Walmart (what can I say ever since I became a grandfather babies make me happy).

We all must look to the things that bring us joy and hold onto that, and build our community from those feelings. Re-establishing hope, that is what United Way is about, and thanks to you our mission will continue.

Thank you for you continuing support and generosity.
Jeff Cothran

Executive Director, United Way of Selma & Dallas County