This county has not been immune to the recession that all Americans in some form or another have been struggling to overcome. Those who never in their wildest dreams thought they would be in financial straits are having to look for help.
While there are signs on the horizon that better times are coming, the need for help in this county is great.
That is why this year's Covington-Newton County United Way's fundraising campaign is so important as dollars raised stay within the county's borders helping fund agencies and programs that help with immediate needs and address the root causes of social issues such as homelessness and lack of education.
Our local United Way supports agencies that provide for the basic building blocks that improve quality of life for all. Those building blocks include programs that address education, health and financial issues as well as those that are dedicated to helping people rebuild their lives.
The 19 programs offered by 19 agencies serving Newton County currently supported by our United Way have proven track records of success, as each was required to show that money they received actually helped our neighbors.
During this fall's fundraising campaign, Newton County neighbors have the opportunity to reach out a hand and help each other to achieve the goal of Living United. Times may be tough and the needs ever increasing, but I believe the hearts of Newton County residents are up to the task.
Newton County is blessed with great people who are willing to share what they have and help those less fortunate. This has been proven time and again.
When natural disasters have struck or when we hear about someone in great need, help comes in abundant ways and the agencies supported by the United Way are front and center to offer their services and support. This county is blessed with numerous agencies providing a myriad of services to Newton County residents who find themselves in need.
These agencies depend on your generosity to provide the dollars needed to provide services that improve the quality of life of their recipients. Their programs, while addressing many different needs have one common thread; they are the building blocks for a better future for Newton County families.
This year, the United Way is spreading a grassroots message that we hope will reach all residents, LIVE UNITED...give, advocate, volunteer.
These are not just words on paper that someone thinks sounds effective, they represent a message that will hopefully unite those of us blessed to live in Newton County to reach and impact lives.
Over the course of the next few weeks, Newton Countians will have the opportunity to participate in workplace campaigns making a pledge to help support these vital programs. For Newton County residents who are not part of a campaign through their company but still want to participate, a donation may be made directly to the Covington Newton County United Way and sent to P.O. Box 1344, Covington, Ga. 30015.
We invite you to be part of the change...to give, to advocate and to volunteer in whatever capacity you can. Together we can make sure the blessings of Newton County are available to all.
Doris Strickland is the executive director of the Covington-Newton County United Way. Employers interested in information on a workplace campaign, or individuals wishing to contribute should call (770) 786-7638 or e-mail ncuf@bellsouth.net.
