Many individuals with widely-divergent needs are assisted by the Heart of Missouri United Way through the agencies it helps sponsor. The young, the old, the sick, the homeless, the hungry, those in need of transportation, tutelage, and employment represent just some of those United Way agencies serve. All of us living in this area are impacted directly or indirectly by the work of these charitable organizations.
Georgalu Swoboda, Executive Director, Big Brothers Big Sisters, who spoke at the MU Libraries’ Kick-Off Luncheon on Tuesday, September 21st, was also kind enough to share this story, illustrating the positive things her agency does for the community.
Over 4 years ago Big Sister Denise Schehl-Geiger was matched with De’Jonna, a shy eight-year old. That match has taught Denise a lot about being active and staying young, about the value of being involved and helping
others in the community. Denise served in the Army and now works for the VA. She became a “Big” because she wanted to do something for a little girl who might not have had all the breaks. De’Jonna is now in 7th grade and enjoys many new experiences and giving back to the community by volunteering. She’s already decided she wants to be a Big Sister, too, when she gets older. Denise likes to tell people that being a Big Brother or Big Sister is something ”you can fit it right into your daily life. “ Spending two hours a week with a child is “nothing.”
To ensure that this and other United Way agencies’ crucial work continues, please send your Heart of Missouri United Way pledge form to:
Mark Ellis
104 Ellis Library
ellismw@missouri.edu
882-9169
Pledge forms received by October 8, 2010 will be entered in a drawing for concert tickets. Each winner will receive one set of concert tickets. There will be 5 sets–a set consists of 2 tickets to the same event–of concert tickets drawn on the 8th.. Some concerts include a reception. At some receptions, the food may be extremely simple fare while at others the equivalent of a gourmet quality meal is available with appropriate beverages. Nevertheless all tickets enable the holder to attend a memorable performance, featuring major talent.
Please return your pledge form as soon as possible. Your pledge not only helps United Way agencies in this area to continue their beneficial activities but also gives you a chance to attend a performance by a legendary entertainer.
Grand Prize: The MU Libraries’ United Way Campaign ends October 15, 2010. The names of all who have returned their forms by that date will be entered in a drawing for a $50 Columbia Mall gift certificate. Please note that the Mall gift certificate has enhanced value since it is now accepted at many stores throughout the area.
If you have any questions, please contact Mark Ellis or a member of the committee.
Thank you,
Mary Hainen, Ann Riley, and Paula Roper –MU Libraries United Way Campaign Committee
PS – If you would like to know more about the Heart of Missouri United Way, this is the link to their very informative home page http://uwheartmo.org/.