Many have remarked on what a strange and difficult time this year has been. And while that’s certainly true, it has also been a year in which the very best in people, and our community, shone through.
Here at the United Way, we are deeply impressed by the unity of purpose and the determination shown by our funded partners, the non-profit community and our donors. In a time riddled with sadness, fear and uncertainty brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, those helping hands warmed our hearts and strengthened our resolve.
Today, we begin to share the stories that inspire us through Unite, our brand new e-newsletter. We hope you enjoy it, and welcome your suggestions and comments.
As we move toward the holidays and the end of 2020, we are filled with admiration at the way in which our funded partners and the non-profit organizations shifted to keep working despite the anxieties and constraints of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Special efforts were made to make sure people knew what was available each day, from mental health services to food banks. We didn’t just all go home, lock ourselves in our houses and forget about others.
Instead, the enduring strength of the human spirit shone through as we all rallied to support others in a time of dire need.
Our donors and supporters continue to amaze us with their generosity, despite trying circumstances. We were worried about a steep decline in donations this year as the pandemic brought the economy to a virtual standstill.
There’s no doubt it has been challenging, but people have gone out of their way to continue to support us and, by extension, the most vulnerable in their communities.
More than a dozen workplaces increased their giving this year. We have seen many donors increase their gifts. We’ve also had donors call to say their circumstances have changed and they can’t give as much but they still want to give.
We are always humbled to see such goodness and kindness in the hearts of so many.
From the bottom of our hearts, we offer our most sincere thanks.
Wishing you and yours a safe, healthy and united holiday,
Alexya Heelis
Executive Director
United Way
Saint John, Kings & Charlotte