After the Dec. 3 meeting of the United Way of the Big Bend meeting, UWBB is proud to say that they are 80 percent to their goal of collected funds for their summer donation program. The program is truly unique, in that the volunteers supporting United Way of the Big Bend with their time and energy, get a say in where the organization’s collected funds, that isn’t already dedicated, gets to go; and with 20 organizations that can be supported by funds that the United Way raises, there is definitely plenty of heart and soul to choose to warm. The United Way has a goal of $82,000, and so far, their total has reached the grand number of $65,000. Interested in helping out? There are definitely options! Monetary contributions are always appreciated, whether as a personal contribution or if you decide to give through your company or workplace. The Madison County Community Bank accepts the contributions for the sake of UWBB and if you have interest in donating even a small amount to the cause, they will never turn anything away. There are also other options outside of donating funds. United Way of the Big Bend’s Read United is a week long reading program that volunteers can sign up for to go in and read to a class of young school children. At the end of the week, new books are handed out to each student to lift up the spirit of reading, and to hopefully encourage the young readers to keep up a habit of reading. Another program that encourages reading and is run by UWBB is their Reading Pals. More intricate, it also has the more personal impact on student’s lives, as a volunteer offers their time to go sit with a new and troubled reader at Greenville Elementary and help encourage them through by games, reading along and flash cards. At the end of each week, the student is given a brand new book to take home and keep for his or her own. It extends longer, and takes up more time, but is also extends a more solid and impacting hand of aid to readers who just need the attention and the time to stretch out their own literary wings. If you have interest in lending your time and heart, or giving funds to an organization where you, as a volunteer, can help make an impact, you can always contact Karen Frazee at her direct line 487-9807 or email her at Karen@uwbb.org. Part of being in a community is given back, and what better way, then through an organization that truly cares for young and old alike?
