The Clock is Ticking!

                                                                                                Nelson Cole

                                                                                            2011-2012 Campaign Chairman

 A Message from Your 2011-2012 Campaign Chair, Nelson Cole

Many United Way of Rockingham County Partner Agencies in our community that  provide vital and necessary services for our neighbors are experiencing cuts in their state funding. We do not know the full impact of those cuts. But we do know the cuts are so deep that some of those agencies now face the possibility of closing their doors. If they do, the next people in Rockingham County who need help during these difficult times will not receive it. 

Difficult times are the times when the people of Rockingham County have traditionally been at our very best. After the terrible tornado struck Western Rockingham County in 1998, hundreds of volunteers rushed in to help.  And through the generosity of thousands of our neighbors, the United Way campaign achieved an 11% increase in its campaign that year.  Now, over a decade later, with the unemployment rate at 11.5%, it is the time for us to step up again and help our neighbors and communities to remain strong by giving to our local United Way Campaign.
 
You can help us keep the doors open for our United Way Partner Agencies and the people they care for through several giving opportunities:

1.   Give your donation early so it can be doubled in value! The Williams-Transco Gas Pipeline’s Classic Golf Tournament will take place at the end of September. The company’s campaign to raise money for the Rockingham County United Way Campaign offers a dollar for dollar match up to $100,000. Last year, we raised $53,000, leaving $47,000 “on the table.” Giving to the tournament will help us to take all $100,000 off the table this year, and will help sustain the programs in our community that invest in education, support financial stability, and provide safety and access to healthcare for all our residents.
2.   Give when your workplace holds its campaign! No matter where you are, you know someone whose life has been changed through the services you will be helping to support.
3.   Step up your giving and become a Pillar Society Member! By giving $500 or more, you will be recognized as a leader who supports what's working in our community to keep it strong and healthy.
4.   Consider a Legacy Gift that will impact your community for years to come! Contact your United Way of Rockingham County office at 342-7768 for further information about how you can leave a legacy of hope for your community.

Let’s keep the doors open to our United Way Partner Agencies!  These agencies work to provide food, shelter, after school child care, emergency rescue services, homework assistance, elder care and many other services for all of us  right here in Rockingham County.   Together, we can raise $1,000,000 so our 19 Partner Agencies can continue to make a difference in the lives of all who live here in Rockingham County!  THE CLOCK IS TICKING! And the time to take action is NOW!