Letter - This group of people is working hard to make a difference

To the editor:

I have had the privilege of serving on the board of directors for United Way of Douglas and Pope Counties for the past year. In that time I have seen many of the amazing things that the United Way does for our community.

One of my favorite experiences was volunteering at last year’s Community Connect event. My task for the day was to stand in the pouring rain and load groceries into people’s cars. Not long into my shift, I recognized a woman making her way through the aisles of food. She was a classmate of mine from high school. I did not ask what her story was but it was easy to see that times were tough. It was also easy to see how much she appreciated the help that she received at the event.

As we continued to load cars for several hours, I was amazed by how many families right here in our community are in need of help. By the end of the day I was soaked to the bone but I felt great because I knew that I had played a small part in making a big difference in a lot of people’s lives.

Prior to my involvement, I had the impression that the United Way was a giant organization asking for money and I had no idea where the money went. I have come to realize that United Way of Douglas and Pope Counties is a group of dedicated, passionate people right here in our community working hard to make a difference, and the people receiving help are people we see every day, people that you and I know.

Consider supporting United Way during this year’s campaign. Together, we can inspire people to make a lasting difference in the lives of all.

Aaron Nelson

Alexandria, MN

Tags: opinion, letters