I love conversation over a good cup of coffee and I have a tremendous sweet tooth. The pair often leads me to take advantage of any opportunity to share a table with colleagues and friends at one of our wonderful local coffee shops. My cup typically resembles more a dessert than a beverage, with some curious combination of seasonal flavors and whipped cream. Nonetheless, cup in hand I’m ready to collaborate, problem-solve, celebrate - or my favorite - slow down for a chance to get to know someone. Last week I found myself at the counter of a favorite spot eager for the beloved fall special and time with a colleague. Working on my order, the barista asked, “what do you do for work?”.
I smiled. I wanted to invite them to join me at a table so that I could share the fullness of everything United Way makes possible. To share with them that what makes it so wonderful is the incredible community of support that fuels our impact.
I wanted to describe to them that through the remarkable partnership and generosity of our community, we are uniquely positioned to address the most urgent needs of today while also working towards long-term solutions that create lasting change.
I wanted to share that through the caring power of donors, we invest in local nonprofit partners providing vital services across our community, and that those investments are driven by community volunteers who ensure we are making a meaningful impact by addressing our neighbors’ most critical needs.
I wanted to highlight how we are driving community collaboration on behalf of young people through community schools and how 65, and growing, community schools across Idaho are making a difference in the lives of kids and families.
I wanted them to know how we connect people seeking help with free and reduced-cost resources with dignity and ease through findhelpidaho.org and that the free, confidential, easy to use tool provides up-to-date information to help people find the support they need and improve the health and social outcomes of our communities.
I wanted to say that United Way mobilizes the community to action so all can thrive. That we are committed to improving health and wellbeing for all, helping young people realize their full potential, creating a stronger financial future for every generation, and addressing urgent needs today for a better tomorrow.
But, as the line grew behind me, I said “I work for United Way. We partner with the community to help ensure every person has what they need to thrive.”
“Wow. Sounds awesome!” the barista said.
Grabbing my whipped cream-adorned cup, I said, “It is awesome and that’s just the beginning."
Megan Remaley
President and CEO