Social agencies require support

The United Way has been around for decades, but many people may still not understand what the organization is because it doesn’t provide services.

The role of the United Way is to act as an umbrella that collectively raises funds for some of our region’s most critical social agencies. With the United Way focused on generating revenue, the agencies can do what they do best — help residents in need.

And the influence of these groups is vast.

Where would we be without the Falkland/Westwold First Responders, the White Valley Community Resource Centre, St. John Ambulance or Kindale?

If the People In Need crisis line didn’t exist, individuals who are suicidal would have no one to turn to. Trying to overcome substance abuse would be even more difficult if the Shuswap-Okanagan Treatment Centre wasn’t there. Children who should enjoy life’s pleasures would be impacted if there was no Therapeutic Riding Association.

Challenge yourself to not try and find a friend, family member or co-worker who hasn’t accessed the services of at least one of the 31 agencies that fall under the United Way umbrella. Try as you might, this task will be an uphill battle because these agencies have touched the lives of thousands of people.

Presently, the United Way is struggling to meet its fundraising goal of $400,000, and while the recession has created financial uncertainty for many of us, we must all stand together for the betterment of our region.

By supporting the United Way, we are showing we care about our family, neighbours and perhaps ourselves.

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