The importance of the Callaway County United Way

Those of us that are board members or regular volunteers for the Callaway County United Way (CCUW) understand the good that is being done each day by our agencies.

During a recent employee campaign, we asked members of the faculty and staff of Westminster College why they thought providing support to the CCUW was beneficial to our community.  We got many different answers, and learned something new from each person's perspective. Here is one of the responses we received:

 Having served on the SERVE Board in the past, I know how important the UNITED WAY funding is too many organizations in our community.  From Head Start to Scouts to our Homeless Shelters, the Kingdom Projects Sheltered Workshop and more, the CALLAWAY COUNTY UNITED WAY makes a positive difference improving the daily lives of many of our friends and neighbors.  

– Angela Grogan, Director of Library Services & Assistant Professor, Westminster College, Fulton, MO

The CCUW exists to help those right here in our county -- our neighbors, our friends, our co-workers and family -- and the need is great.  Won't you please join us in providing much needed help today?  Visit the CCUW website for more details.  Thank you!

Why I give to the CCUW

I began giving to the United Way over 30 years ago, via payroll deduction.  It was something my employer encouraged, and they made the process simple.  I knew if I gave in this way, I could help others without missing the money.  Even though my employers have changed over the years, I’ve continued this practice – every year. 

Why do I give to the United Way?  While payroll deduction makes it easy, I give for several reasons.  One, I’m helping the people with whom I share a community.  United Way funds stay local – so I’m helping my neighbors, my friends, my coworkers.  Two, I have been personally touched by several United Way agencies.   From CARDV, to SERVE, to the Salvation Army – I’ve seen firsthand how much someone can benefit from these agencies.  And three, it makes me feel good to know I make a difference in my home community.  I live here.  I like the fact that I can make a difference where I live.

I hope you will join me in helping make a difference in the lives of our neighbors, our friends, and our coworkers through the Callaway County United Way.   Check out the many ways to give.

Thank you.

Sharon Mather

Fulton, MO

Holiday Stress

               As the end of the year draws near, charity is not always the first thing on our minds.  Stress, travel, expenses, pressure, shopping, families – all of these can be a part of our “favorite” time of the year.  So, we’d like to alleviate ONE stressor from your holiday season.  We’d like to show you how to help your fellow man and not write a check to the Callaway County United Way (although we will graciously accept your donation any time of year J).

               Do you shop on Amazon?  Has it become one of your go-to online stores?  You know you can buy books, e-books, baby gifts, Christmas gifts, music, electronics, jewelry, healthcare items, vitamins, clothing, shoes, musical instruments, video games, power tools and wine on Amazon?  In fact, we haven’t found anything you CAN’T buy on Amazon.  And, most shipping is free!  So how on earth, you’re asking, does this matter to the Callaway County United Way?  Let us show you. 

Visit Smile.Amazon.com.  It’s the same Amazon you’ve loved, offering the same great prices on the same great products, except you get to choose the Callaway County United Way as your charity of choice.  Every purchase you make will send a donation our way.  No need to sign up for a separate account…you use the same Amazon account you always have.

               It’s win-win.  You get to do all your holiday shopping from the comfort of your home (you can Christmas shop in your fuzzy slippers, if you want to), you get to have a great selection of products literally at your fingertips, and, best of all, you get to alleviate a touch of holiday guilt by helping out the Callaway County United Way.  So what are you waiting for?  Start shopping.  Visit Smile.Amazon.com today.  You’ll be amazed.