Live United by Erin Haag

 

In my last column, I wrote about our board member, Nick Schiltz. I’ve had tremendous response to that column, with people telling me how much they respect and value the Schiltz family. Total strangers stopped me and told me, “I haven’t had the pleasure of meeting Nick or his family, but now I want to!” It’s a bittersweet article now, as Polly Schiltz passed away this week. I didn’t get the opportunity to meet her, but I’ve been inspired and in awe of the of life she led, leading by example to her family, friends and students. The United Way of Freeborn County staff and board of directors sends their sympathy to the Schiltz family as they mourn their loss, and as they celebrate her life. We know that Polly’s legacy will be carried on through her family, friends and the students she taught for so many years.

Kristin and I, along with amazing volunteers, had a booth at Wind Down Wednesday this past week. We were so disappointed to be rained out for the July date, and so excited we were able to join in for the August date.

Our booth was inviting kids to bowl, and asking kids and adults to draw us a picture, or write words, about who they are or what they believe in. We then took their picture. As an organization that serves Freeborn County, we wanted to have a visual representation of who lives in Freeborn County. We loved the pictures we got and can’t wait to share them all with you.

It’s been pointed out by several people that I neglected to talk about my children last time. What can I say? Nick takes up a lot of room, both literally and figuratively. So here’s the tidbit for this week. My son was a volunteer “helper” at the booth for an hour while waiting for his daddy to pick him up. So of course, we asked him to draw a picture for us of what he believes in. He drew me a map, and asked me to write, “I believe in mommy, daddy, Gracie, God and everybody in the whole wide world”.

I asked him where the map was leading to: “To the treasure of course.” Of course, I’ll be framing that one.

It may not be the gold treasure that he’s thinking of, but believing in people is certainly a treasure. As a community, we can come together and believe in each other, empowering us all. Live united, believing in each other, helping each other.   

My son truly believes in the power of community. After all, Freeborn County has been living united since the 1920s — maybe even longer if I keep finding historical documents. Right now we’re at 92 years and going strong.

If you haven’t met me or my children yet, you’ll have your chance Sept. 28. We invite you to join us for a community meal at Dine United at the 112 Fall Fest. Hosted downtown, it’s a bring your own picnic style. 112 on Broadway will be providing pulled pork sandwiches for sale, with a portion of the proceeds to United Way of Freeborn County. 112 on Broadway is also providing live music.

Save the date, and stay tuned for more information as we finalize details.

If you’re interested in having a booth with an activity or sponsoring a drink or dessert table, please contact our office at 507-373-8670.

The earliest form of the United Way was called the Community Chest. Kristin and I have had some ideas using some “treasure chests” as part of displays around town this fall. I’ve been smiling at the idea of my son finding a treasure chest. When he does, I’ll tell him that it’s the treasure chest that he drew the map to, so we could believe in our community. 

Erin Haag is the director of the United Way of Freeborn County.