Where did 2019 go? It feels like just yesterday I was getting used to writing 2019 on everything. As we look to a new year, it is common to set goals, make changes or adjustments and maybe just resolve to be better overall. What are your resolutions going to be? One of my personal goals is to be more present and set my phone down more often. It has become so easy to be connected that I feel that I am often over informed which can lead to misinformation, stress and wasted time.

As the leader of a local nonprofit, I encourage those of you wondering something about United Way of Southwest Minnesota (or any organization) to reach out and ask. Stop by for coffee, send me an email. Asking questions is simply how we learn, so please ask them! Below are two common myths that are often misunderstood about our organization.

Myth #1: United Way of Southwest Minnesota funds Planned Parenthood and/or abortions.

Incorrect.

FACT: United Way of Southwest Minnesota invests in five key priority areas: health, education, financial stability, hunger and safety & well-being. All funded program(s) must impact local people living within the UWSWMN service area. We are an independently incorporated 501(c)(3) organization that is governed by our own local board of directors with all resources under local control and decision making. We have no prior or current relationship with Planned Parenthood and provide no financial support of their work.

Myth #2: All of the money raised here gets sent to United Way Worldwide and doesn’t stay local.

Incorrect.

FACT: United Way Worldwide (UWW) is the support organization for the nearly 1,800 local United Ways around the globe. UWW’s work is supported by the 1% membership fee paid by local United Ways such as United Way of Southwest Minnesota. The membership fee we pay to UWW is recouped by our local communities many times over in training, services and access to national corporate and employee giving campaigns.

United Way of Southwest Minnesota has been re-certified in accountability and awarded the Charities Review Council “Meet Standards” Seal. The Certification and Seal indicate that we meet all 25 of the Council’s Accountability Standards in the areas of Public Disclosure, Governance, Financial Activity and Fundraising. To learn more about the work of your LOCAL United Way, please visit our website at UnitedWaySWMN.org and follow us on social media!