Live United by Ann Austin

The United Way began as a means to bring organizations together to more effectively help people in need. This vision expanded across the nation and is now worldwide.

Our work today is much the same. The mission of the United Way of Freeborn County is uniting people and resources to improve lives.

As our community needs change, our work will shift focus. It is important to recognize this is a natural part of the evolution of a community — and take time to educate yourself about what is happening in your neighborhood or find a way to get involved.

There are many organizations we are thankful to partner with in Freeborn County and the surrounding areas to look deeper at how to address issues in the areas of education, income and health. When we join together with a common vision, there is much we can do!

In the past, our United Way has had the wonderful opportunity to write a regular column in the Albert Lea Tribune. This year, we will expand the reach to include other organizations doing great work.

From now until the end of the year, every other week, you will read about local programs and stories of people’s lives impacted by the work of nonprofits in our area. You will also get ideas for how you can become more engaged — either through advocacy efforts or volunteerism.

I would like to again thank the people of Freeborn County for being such a great support of our United Way! It is so vital to focus on supporting local programs, especially during times of great change and transition. We are stronger when we join together — we are stronger because of all of you!

 

Ann Austin is the executive director of the United Way of Freeborn County.