It’s the end of January and each year that signals the end of our campaign. Words cannot express the gratitude and honor it brings us as an organization that so many folks from throughout the area trust us to make an impact in southwest Minnesota with their gift. Without all of you, we would not be able to support 48,600 local people through various partnerships, internal programs and initiatives throughout our service area.

Your gift is not about the amount you give but in the desire you have to change lives through your gift. Giving comes from the heart and a true desire to help a friend or neighbor. You have the opportunity to make a positive impact in your community, neighborhood or school.

The following story is one example of how your donation is being invested to improve the lives of local people.

“…Hazel Run is a small quiet town that has limited resources. With the support of United Way of Southwest Minnesota, we will be able to support the people in Hazel Run. No longer will they have nutrition barriers that limit them from receiving a hot meal and weekday safety check. No longer will people feel isolated and lonely, they will be visited by a caring person who will deliver not only a meal, but will also give hope to people who are living in the remote areas. Whether you live in a larger community in Yellow Medicine County or one of the smallest communities, each person matters. United Way of Southwest Minnesota states, Every person. Every community. This is a powerful statement in that it reinforces the importance of every individual. Your dollars are directly making a difference.”

Thank you to the numerous businesses and individuals that have already supported our campaign. Without you, our friends in the community of Hazel Run would not receive a hot meal and weekday safety checks. This is just one among many stories that illustrates how your gift will impact local people.

Contributions can be mailed to PO Box 41, Marshall, MN 56258 or made online at www.unitedwayswmn.org. The annual campaign runs through Feb. 1.

United Way of Southwest Minnesota is an autonomous, local organization working to create lasting change in people’s lives and the communities we serve in Lincoln, Lyon, Murray, Yellow Medicine and portions of Cottonwood, Lac qui Parle, Nobles, and Redwood counties of Minnesota.