Happy New Year! I can’t look back at January and not mention the weather. That is just what we Minnesotans do; we talk about the weather! I think there is a saying that if you want to experience different weather in Minnesota, wait 30 minutes or drive 45 miles! The good news is that the weather hasn’t impacted the great work of our community partners and internal programs made possible by the donations of many individuals and businesses throughout our service area.

Together, we are helping our home! We would not have the opportunity to impact the lives of local people without the support and generosity of our donors. If you haven’t had a chance to make a contribution to United Way of Southwest Minnesota, I hope you consider making a donation for these reasons:

UWSWMN provides support to 52,600 local people in MANY ways. Here are a few specific examples:

• Local children received school supplies to start the year off right

• Local senior citizens living in rural areas have access to nutritious meals

• Local victims of domestic abuse or a crime have access to safety, resources and assistance

• Local youth have the opportunity to participate in an after school enrichment program

UWSWMN is a Charities Review Council: Meet Standards Organization since 2015:

• This is a visual marker of non-profit strength

• 25 accountability standards in the areas of Public Disclosure, Governance, Financial Activity and Fundraising

• Visit www.smartgivers.org to view our full report and learn more

UWSWMN is committed to southwest Minnesota through:

• Community Impact Grants

• Small Grants

• Internal Education Initiatives (Imagination Library, Stuff the Bus, etc.)

Thank you to the numerous businesses and individuals that have already supported our campaign. Your donation makes a tremendous impact…maybe even more than you expected!

Every single donation makes a difference. You have the opportunity to make a positive impact in your community, neighborhood or school. It takes all of us: fundraisers, hand raisers, change makers, partners and YOU to create lasting change.

Together, we are making a difference Contributions can be mailed to PO Box 41, Marshall, MN 56258 or made online at www.unitedwayswmn.org. The annual campaign runs through Jan. 31.