Rick West
Resource Development Director
United Way Blackhawk Region
I’m sure you’ve experienced moments in your life when you’ve wondered if what you do every day at work really does make a difference. I have often pondered that question myself during my career, but not the past eight years.
Thanks to an opportunity to join the team at United Way Blackhawk Region in February of 2013, I have spent the past eight years knowing how fortunate I am to be working for an organization that makes a difference every single day.
Now as I prepare for the next chapter of my life, with retirement scheduled for March 31, I wanted to use this format to share with you what I’ve learned about the mission of United Way and how it truly does fight for the health, education and financial stability of every person.
Over the years, although I know I could have done more, I am a strong believer in giving back. There is no magic solution to community problems, which means each one of us needs to work together.
I have learned firsthand that investing in United Way is so much more than just giving to charity. With a direct gift to United Way or pledging through payroll deduction at work, you are investing in the future of our community. United Way Blackhawk Region partners with local health and human service programs to not only help people in need today but to produce positive results for tomorrow. Through a unique volunteer-driven, outcome-oriented evaluation process, United Way invests in programs that ensure that our community’s children, families, and seniors, access pathways to a better life.
I have also felt a sense of personal satisfaction by giving. With all of us investing together, the return on our combined investment, increases not only our own well-being but outcomes for others. We all can make a difference, regardless of status or net worth.
While March 31 will be my last day as a member of the United Way team, I will continue to join you in giving to United Way, because I know it will result in a better tomorrow.
Are you making a difference? You can by supporting United Way.
