Letter: Campaign special for United Way

The United Way of Greater Lima has been helping to improve the lives of people in Allen County for nearly 100 years. United Way brings people together not only to meet people’s immediate needs but also to find solutions to the issues facing our communities.

Earlier this year, the June flooding saw the United Way being on the receiving end of needing help instead of giving help. More than 2 feet of water flooded the Pangle Building that is home to United Way and the YWCA Childcare Resource and Referral. Being in the business of providing help to those in need, it was critical to get both organizations up and running as soon as possible. The community rallied to support us with manpower and donations to help us get back in business. Within days, the United Way was working again. Recently, we were able to get back into our office.

On September 24, United Way kicked off the 2015 Campaign with a bang at the Allen County Fairgrounds with a celebration including fireworks, food, entertainment and games. We estimated over 700 people attended. It was great to see people of all ages enjoying the event and supporting the work of United Way and our partner agencies.

We would like to express our gratitude to the many organizations and people who helped us through these past few months and that helped make the 2015 Campaign Kick-off event a success.

This year’s campaign has a special meaning—experiencing first-hand the caring, supportive community we call home.

— Carol Braden-Clarke, president of United Way of Greater Lima