There's nothing like a good game of golf or bowling to get those competitive juices flowing. This year, Marshfield Savings Bank took these tried and true outings and held them in their office. However, there were no pins, lanes, clubs or greens all the fun unfolded in a Wii Tournament held by MSB.
Wii Systems were set up on both ends of a conference room. Golf and bowling was projected up on the wall for the participants to compete. The highest scores of each bracket pairing advanced to the next level until two champions were crowned.
Friday, September 12, 2008
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
Another great season of Pacesetter events
Every year caring businesses and organizations from across the area put their thinking caps on to have fun, create enthusiasm and raise money for the Marshfield area. And 2008 was no exception.
Do you want your company's events for United Way featured here? Send pictures and event description to unitedway.stacey@tznet.com or call the office 384-9992, so we can show our support (and bring our camera!).
Do you want your company's events for United Way featured here? Send pictures and event description to unitedway.stacey@tznet.com or call the office 384-9992, so we can show our support (and bring our camera!).
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
September is United Way month at Wickersham Jewelry
Shop Wickersham Jewelry this September for your special occasions or anniversaries. Sparkle and shine while you LIVE UNITED with this exciting opportunity. A portion of sales from the special United Way case will be donated to Marshfield Area United Way to help your friends, families and neighbors in need.Visit the Marshfield location at Founder’s Square: 112 North Central Avenue in September to take advantage of this community-minded shopping opportunity!
For more information about this event, call Wickersham Jewelry at 384-4102.
Photo Above Left: Marshfield Wickersham Jewelry staff and United Way Director Paula Jero LIVE UNITED with a special promotion to raise money for area residents in need.
Monday, August 18, 2008
Summer brings garden harvesting and United Way campaigning
It’s an exciting time of year. The weather is still warm and inviting for summer activities and preseason football is finally here, tempting me until regular season snaps begin. But one of the most rewarding things in August is the garden harvest. All of our hard work is starting to bear fruits and vegetables.
Gardening takes planning, preparation and a fair amount of patience. And as I look at my calendar for the year ahead, I can’t help notice the parallels between United Way’s work and the work of harvesting a garden.
People with green thumbs and farmers start their work by knowing their land. They know when to plant and how far apart the seeds and rows should be. United Way’s starting point is to stay informed about needs of the community. Volunteers review local program applications each spring and decide funding for those that address the Marshfield area’s most critical needs.
The objective for the garden often is to produce enough fruits and vegetables for canning or freezing for use over the winter. United Way’s objective is to create opportunities of a better life for everyone. To help achieve that goal, one strategy is to raise money through the community campaign.
Soon United Way Drive Chairs, staff and Partner Programs will visit your workplace. Fundraising events like brat frys, office mini golf or dunk tanks will be gracing companies across the Marshfield area. These events and activities are like the upkeep of a garden, weeding and pruning to keep the plants fruitful. Judging a decorating contest is way more fun than pulling weeds though.
Finally the time comes to pick the tomatoes, beans, peppers and cucumbers. These are the tasty results of months of hard work. The result of your contribution to the United Way campaign is just as fulfilling. It’s the smile of a child whose mentor helps her turn her life around. It’s a family who has some place to turn after a fire destroys their home. And it’s a man and woman who can stay in the home where they raised their children because of a budgeting class.
Like the amazing work of nature when vegetables grow from tiny seeds, a contribution to United Way has creates long lasting results in the lives of families, individuals, seniors and youth in our community.
Get involved: Give. Advocate. Volunteer. LIVE UNITED. To learn more visit marshfieldareaunitedway.org or call 384-9992.
Contributed by Stacey Oelrich, United Way’s 2-1-1 Program Coordinator and Communications Director
Gardening takes planning, preparation and a fair amount of patience. And as I look at my calendar for the year ahead, I can’t help notice the parallels between United Way’s work and the work of harvesting a garden.
People with green thumbs and farmers start their work by knowing their land. They know when to plant and how far apart the seeds and rows should be. United Way’s starting point is to stay informed about needs of the community. Volunteers review local program applications each spring and decide funding for those that address the Marshfield area’s most critical needs.
The objective for the garden often is to produce enough fruits and vegetables for canning or freezing for use over the winter. United Way’s objective is to create opportunities of a better life for everyone. To help achieve that goal, one strategy is to raise money through the community campaign.
Soon United Way Drive Chairs, staff and Partner Programs will visit your workplace. Fundraising events like brat frys, office mini golf or dunk tanks will be gracing companies across the Marshfield area. These events and activities are like the upkeep of a garden, weeding and pruning to keep the plants fruitful. Judging a decorating contest is way more fun than pulling weeds though.
Finally the time comes to pick the tomatoes, beans, peppers and cucumbers. These are the tasty results of months of hard work. The result of your contribution to the United Way campaign is just as fulfilling. It’s the smile of a child whose mentor helps her turn her life around. It’s a family who has some place to turn after a fire destroys their home. And it’s a man and woman who can stay in the home where they raised their children because of a budgeting class.
Like the amazing work of nature when vegetables grow from tiny seeds, a contribution to United Way has creates long lasting results in the lives of families, individuals, seniors and youth in our community.
Get involved: Give. Advocate. Volunteer. LIVE UNITED. To learn more visit marshfieldareaunitedway.org or call 384-9992.
Contributed by Stacey Oelrich, United Way’s 2-1-1 Program Coordinator and Communications Director
Tuesday, August 05, 2008
Motorcycle enthusiasts ride for United Way
Power Pac’s Poker Run for United Way will bring together motorcycle enthusiasts to help create opportunities for a better life for everyone in the Marshfield Area.
Saturday, September 20 check in and registration begins 8 a.m. at the Power Pac, Inc. parking lot, located at 10599 Business Highway 13 South. Riders will receive a map of the route with 4-6 stops for the day.
The ride concludes at 4 p.m. when riders will meet back at Power Pac for a cook out, prizes and live entertainment. Don’t miss your chance to win a 2009 Yahama Zuma, drawing held at 6 p.m., must be present to win.
Pre-Registration price is $18 per person until September 19, at the door on September 20 cost is $20 per person. Proceeds benefit Marshfield Area United Way.
Click here to print a registration form. Mail completed forms to Power Pac, Inc. PO Box 340. For more information call Power Pac, Inc. at 387-1106.
Marshfield Area United Way funds 38 local programs addressing the most critical needs to provide the basic things families and individuals need for a good life. It is estimated that one out of four area residents uses a United Way Partner Program each year.
Be a part of change: Give. Advocate. Volunteer. LIVE UNITED. To learn more about United Way, and how you can help create lasting change call 384-9992 or visit marshfieldareaunitedway.org.
Saturday, September 20 check in and registration begins 8 a.m. at the Power Pac, Inc. parking lot, located at 10599 Business Highway 13 South. Riders will receive a map of the route with 4-6 stops for the day.
The ride concludes at 4 p.m. when riders will meet back at Power Pac for a cook out, prizes and live entertainment. Don’t miss your chance to win a 2009 Yahama Zuma, drawing held at 6 p.m., must be present to win.
Pre-Registration price is $18 per person until September 19, at the door on September 20 cost is $20 per person. Proceeds benefit Marshfield Area United Way.
Click here to print a registration form. Mail completed forms to Power Pac, Inc. PO Box 340. For more information call Power Pac, Inc. at 387-1106.
Marshfield Area United Way funds 38 local programs addressing the most critical needs to provide the basic things families and individuals need for a good life. It is estimated that one out of four area residents uses a United Way Partner Program each year.
Be a part of change: Give. Advocate. Volunteer. LIVE UNITED. To learn more about United Way, and how you can help create lasting change call 384-9992 or visit marshfieldareaunitedway.org.
Friday, August 01, 2008
Charlie Engle Running America for Youth Wellness
Courtesy of Tish McCutchen, United Way of America
Running America will start 09.13.08. On that day ultra-athlete Charlie Engle will begin a 45-day run from San Francisco to New York City, partnering with United Way to raise awareness of—and dollars for—children’s health and wellness, especially programs that target children’s obesity.
Obesity among children has nearly doubled in the last decade. More than 9 million children in the United States are either obese or overweight because today's children are not getting the necessary exercise and activity for good health. Charlie will be working with United Ways across the country to raise awareness about programs that help young people make positive nutritional and behavioral choices. It’s his way of living united and inspiring others to join the movement.
Charlie plans to run an average of 70 miles a day as he crosses the country, and he’ll pass through many United Way communities on the way. To see if your city is on the route, check out the Running America Google map.
Even if you’re not on the itinerary, you and your community can be part of this exciting venture and raise awareness about children’s health and wellness by tracking Charlie’s progress… raising dollars for mileposts along the route… or staging a companion run in your own community. Stay tuned to United Way Online for more information about Running America, including ideas about how you can join in.
In case you’re wondering if there’s any chance anyone can actually run 3,000 miles in 45 days (the record is 46 days 8 hours and 36 minutes), check out Running The Sahara, Charlie’s 2007 adventure.
Running America will start 09.13.08. On that day ultra-athlete Charlie Engle will begin a 45-day run from San Francisco to New York City, partnering with United Way to raise awareness of—and dollars for—children’s health and wellness, especially programs that target children’s obesity.
Obesity among children has nearly doubled in the last decade. More than 9 million children in the United States are either obese or overweight because today's children are not getting the necessary exercise and activity for good health. Charlie will be working with United Ways across the country to raise awareness about programs that help young people make positive nutritional and behavioral choices. It’s his way of living united and inspiring others to join the movement.
Charlie plans to run an average of 70 miles a day as he crosses the country, and he’ll pass through many United Way communities on the way. To see if your city is on the route, check out the Running America Google map.
Even if you’re not on the itinerary, you and your community can be part of this exciting venture and raise awareness about children’s health and wellness by tracking Charlie’s progress… raising dollars for mileposts along the route… or staging a companion run in your own community. Stay tuned to United Way Online for more information about Running America, including ideas about how you can join in.
In case you’re wondering if there’s any chance anyone can actually run 3,000 miles in 45 days (the record is 46 days 8 hours and 36 minutes), check out Running The Sahara, Charlie’s 2007 adventure.
Friday, July 18, 2008
Fill a Backpack, Fulfill a Dream
As July came about I found myself protesting the turning of the calendar. It can’t be July, I thought summer seems to be almost over, and I have so much to do. Before I know it I will be putting away the swimming pool, the sandals and gearing up for the beauty of fall. I can remember when I was a girl, and I thought summers lasted forever; the sweet lazy days really seemed endless.
At the next turn of the calendar, many children and their families will start thinking about school and all of the new beginnings this school year will bring. At the start of August every store will be buzzing with children wanting the latest and greatest backpack and supplies.
There are families who are unable to afford the required supplies every child needs to start the school year right. For some, the cost of preparing for school can stretch an already tight budget. But every child should and needs the opportunity to be prepared each school year. Having new school supplies may seem small to adults but to a child it can be everything.
You can put a smile on faces of area children whose parents couldn’t afford new materials. The Fourth Annual "Backpack + Supplies = Success” school supply drive will be held August 4 through August 15. This year’s city-wide drive is coordinated by the United Way Partner Programs: Marshfield Clinic’s Youth Net program and Marshfield Area Volunteer Center.
In 2007, 10 area companies donated nearly 400 backpacks full of supplies to children in need. They were distributed to individuals and elementary schools in Auburndale, Marshfield, Neillsville, Spencer, Stratford as well as Marshfield Middle School.
Marshfield Area Volunteer Center will accept donations from individuals for the backpack drive until Friday, August 15. Donations of backpacks, supplies or gift cards for the purchase of additional backpack supplies are welcome, and should be dropped off at the Volunteer Center, located at 101 West 29th Street, Suite 104 during business hours. The average cost of a backpack with supplies is $30, to receive a list of suggested supplies or for more information, call Sarah Krenn at the Volunteer Center at 384-9992 or e-mail unitedway.sarah@tznet.com.
If you need a backpack, call 384-9992 for a registration form. Registered families will be contacted at the end of August when backpacks are ready for pick up.
Sarah Krenn
Community Impact/Volunteer Center Coordinator
Marshfield Area United Way
P.O. Box 771
384-9992
unitedway.sarah@tznet.com
At the next turn of the calendar, many children and their families will start thinking about school and all of the new beginnings this school year will bring. At the start of August every store will be buzzing with children wanting the latest and greatest backpack and supplies.
There are families who are unable to afford the required supplies every child needs to start the school year right. For some, the cost of preparing for school can stretch an already tight budget. But every child should and needs the opportunity to be prepared each school year. Having new school supplies may seem small to adults but to a child it can be everything.
You can put a smile on faces of area children whose parents couldn’t afford new materials. The Fourth Annual "Backpack + Supplies = Success” school supply drive will be held August 4 through August 15. This year’s city-wide drive is coordinated by the United Way Partner Programs: Marshfield Clinic’s Youth Net program and Marshfield Area Volunteer Center.
In 2007, 10 area companies donated nearly 400 backpacks full of supplies to children in need. They were distributed to individuals and elementary schools in Auburndale, Marshfield, Neillsville, Spencer, Stratford as well as Marshfield Middle School.
Marshfield Area Volunteer Center will accept donations from individuals for the backpack drive until Friday, August 15. Donations of backpacks, supplies or gift cards for the purchase of additional backpack supplies are welcome, and should be dropped off at the Volunteer Center, located at 101 West 29th Street, Suite 104 during business hours. The average cost of a backpack with supplies is $30, to receive a list of suggested supplies or for more information, call Sarah Krenn at the Volunteer Center at 384-9992 or e-mail unitedway.sarah@tznet.com.
If you need a backpack, call 384-9992 for a registration form. Registered families will be contacted at the end of August when backpacks are ready for pick up.
Sarah Krenn
Community Impact/Volunteer Center Coordinator
Marshfield Area United Way
P.O. Box 771
384-9992
unitedway.sarah@tznet.com
Friday, June 20, 2008
United Way spirit is community members caring for each other
Contributed by Andy & Kris Keogh, 2008 Drive Chairs
Marshfield Area United Way has asked us to lead the 2008 United Way campaign. This is a task we find exciting and gratifying and we look forward to meeting and talking with as many people as we can in the coming months. Our central Wisconsin community is for the most part a healthy, safe and peaceful place to live and work. This is because of our history of caring–people and families caring for friends, neighbors and community. We are honored and humbled to lead this community through another season of caring.
For the most part the Marshfield area is an ideal place to live. But there are among us many who have deep and fundamental needs. Our community must make sure none of us goes hungry, cold, sick, homeless or with any basic needs unattended.
In 2007 one of every four persons needed and used a United Way funded program; we all probably know someone whose life was thus personally touched and enriched. At any time it could be any one of us needing help. Our success in any United Way campaign is based on meeting the needs of all who find themselves in need.
When you think of our community as the “united whole” our communal health depends on the condition of each and every person living here. If one child goes without dinner it affects us all.
This is what is reflected in the United Way new tagline LIVE UNITED. While the tagline can be read as a suggestion or a request, we see it as stating a fact. No one lives alone. The only way communities can truly live well is by acknowledging that unity and caring are fundamental components of living well. A healthy community cares for its own.
Marshfield Area United Way has an outstanding history creating opportunities of a better life for everyone. We want to help maintain that history through our leadership. It seems likely the number of those needing help will be greater than ever in the coming months. And while we will probably feel some financial pinch, we need to help those for whom this financial strain is most drastic.
Contributions to this United Way help people in Marshfield, plus all of north Wood, southeast Clark, and southwest Marathon counties. When you’re asked to make a contribution this fall please be generous. Please care: Give. Advocate. Volunteer. LIVE UNITED.
Andy and Kris Keogh are the 2008 Drive Chairs for Marshfield Area United Way. To learn more visit http://www.marshfieldareaunitedway.org/ or call 384-9992.
Marshfield Area United Way has asked us to lead the 2008 United Way campaign. This is a task we find exciting and gratifying and we look forward to meeting and talking with as many people as we can in the coming months. Our central Wisconsin community is for the most part a healthy, safe and peaceful place to live and work. This is because of our history of caring–people and families caring for friends, neighbors and community. We are honored and humbled to lead this community through another season of caring.
For the most part the Marshfield area is an ideal place to live. But there are among us many who have deep and fundamental needs. Our community must make sure none of us goes hungry, cold, sick, homeless or with any basic needs unattended.
In 2007 one of every four persons needed and used a United Way funded program; we all probably know someone whose life was thus personally touched and enriched. At any time it could be any one of us needing help. Our success in any United Way campaign is based on meeting the needs of all who find themselves in need.
When you think of our community as the “united whole” our communal health depends on the condition of each and every person living here. If one child goes without dinner it affects us all.
This is what is reflected in the United Way new tagline LIVE UNITED. While the tagline can be read as a suggestion or a request, we see it as stating a fact. No one lives alone. The only way communities can truly live well is by acknowledging that unity and caring are fundamental components of living well. A healthy community cares for its own.
Marshfield Area United Way has an outstanding history creating opportunities of a better life for everyone. We want to help maintain that history through our leadership. It seems likely the number of those needing help will be greater than ever in the coming months. And while we will probably feel some financial pinch, we need to help those for whom this financial strain is most drastic.
Contributions to this United Way help people in Marshfield, plus all of north Wood, southeast Clark, and southwest Marathon counties. When you’re asked to make a contribution this fall please be generous. Please care: Give. Advocate. Volunteer. LIVE UNITED.
Andy and Kris Keogh are the 2008 Drive Chairs for Marshfield Area United Way. To learn more visit http://www.marshfieldareaunitedway.org/ or call 384-9992.
Friday, May 16, 2008
Of the people, by the people, for the people
By Paula Jero, Executive Director
The quote “…of the people, by the people, for the people,” kept surfacing for me as I participated these past couple of weeks in the process of allocating donations to United Way partner programs.
The “of the people” happened last fall when more than one hundred volunteers conducted the United Way campaign. It is when you as individuals, businesses and workplaces responded through donations and pledges to United Way. More than one million dollars was raised! What a significant accomplishment this community achieved.
The “by the people” is happening now, as volunteers from those same businesses and workplaces decide how the money raised should be distributed in our community. Applications from service providers in our community are carefully reviewed, and tough questions are asked and answered. Ultimately, difficult decisions must be made since the needs are always greater than the resources. As stewards of these dollars, this process allows the best alignment of our resources with the ever changing needs of our community.
The “for the people” is of course when needed services are provided. From birth to the end of life, United Way and its Partner Programs are here and responding to both everyday needs and unexpected events in our community. One out of every four individuals in our community relies on essential services provided by United Way Partner Programs. Meals are delivered to the elderly, the lives of youth are transformed, assistance is given after a fire, families are fed, shelter is provided to those with no housing, respite is given to those needing a break, women are given the support to leave domestic violence and the list goes on.
Ultimately, it is the “for the people” that drives the United Way process. It’s “for the people” that spurs volunteers to ask their co-workers and friends and neighbors for donations, It’s “for the people” that you commit your donations. It is also “for the people” that the volunteers review all of the applications, meet with all of the programs and make the tough funding recommendations.
And it is “for the people” that programs step up to meet the needs of our community. United Way is thankful that “of the people, by the people, and for the people” is at work in our community.
To learn more about Marshfield Area United Way and how you can Give, Advocate, Volunteer call 384-9992 or visit marshfieldareaunitedway.org.
The quote “…of the people, by the people, for the people,” kept surfacing for me as I participated these past couple of weeks in the process of allocating donations to United Way partner programs.
The “of the people” happened last fall when more than one hundred volunteers conducted the United Way campaign. It is when you as individuals, businesses and workplaces responded through donations and pledges to United Way. More than one million dollars was raised! What a significant accomplishment this community achieved.
The “by the people” is happening now, as volunteers from those same businesses and workplaces decide how the money raised should be distributed in our community. Applications from service providers in our community are carefully reviewed, and tough questions are asked and answered. Ultimately, difficult decisions must be made since the needs are always greater than the resources. As stewards of these dollars, this process allows the best alignment of our resources with the ever changing needs of our community.
The “for the people” is of course when needed services are provided. From birth to the end of life, United Way and its Partner Programs are here and responding to both everyday needs and unexpected events in our community. One out of every four individuals in our community relies on essential services provided by United Way Partner Programs. Meals are delivered to the elderly, the lives of youth are transformed, assistance is given after a fire, families are fed, shelter is provided to those with no housing, respite is given to those needing a break, women are given the support to leave domestic violence and the list goes on.
Ultimately, it is the “for the people” that drives the United Way process. It’s “for the people” that spurs volunteers to ask their co-workers and friends and neighbors for donations, It’s “for the people” that you commit your donations. It is also “for the people” that the volunteers review all of the applications, meet with all of the programs and make the tough funding recommendations.
And it is “for the people” that programs step up to meet the needs of our community. United Way is thankful that “of the people, by the people, and for the people” is at work in our community.
To learn more about Marshfield Area United Way and how you can Give, Advocate, Volunteer call 384-9992 or visit marshfieldareaunitedway.org.
Thursday, April 24, 2008
Finding information is as easy as dialing 2-1-1
Every hour of every day, someone in the United States needs essential services—and the Marshfield area is no exception. A single mom is looking to secure adequate child care, a family is searching for social options for a disabled relative or an adult son needs help caring for his aging parents.
There is one place these three people and others can turn to get connected and get answers: United Way’s 2-1-1.
By dialing 2-1-1, you are connected to a trained and friendly operator who has a database of community programs at his or her fingertips to help you find what you’re looking for.
When you call 2-1-1 you receive confidential information or referrals to human services for every day needs or more complex problems. With an increasing amount of programs and services is available, it can often be confusing to know the right place to call. In many cases people end up going without necessary and readily available services because they did not know where to start.
But 2-1-1 eliminates the confusion, because there is information about resources like food banks, rent assistance, utility assistance, support groups, counseling, financial assistance, transportation information, respite care, independent living programs, child care, protective services and more.
School will be out in a couple of months and it’s a perfect opportunity for you to pick up the phone and utilize 2-1-1’s resources. You can learn about the range of age-appropriate activities for your children. This may include your local library’s hours and how to get involved in its summer reading program or details about summer camp options and other local recreation programs.
These services aren’t limited to only the Marshfield area. In February 2006, 46 percent of the U.S. population had access to 2-1-1 services. In January 2008, coverage has expanded to 76 percent. Twenty-four states have 100 percent coverage—including Wisconsin—with the rest in implementation stages.
Marshfield Area United Way and United Way of Inner Wisconsin partner to provide the Marshfield area 2-1-1 services, available 24 hours a day, everyday.
Get connected to the information you are looking for any time day or night by dialing 2-1-1 or visiting www.getconnected211.org.
Contributed by Stacey Oelrich, United Way’s 2-1-1 Program Coordinator and Communications Director
There is one place these three people and others can turn to get connected and get answers: United Way’s 2-1-1.
By dialing 2-1-1, you are connected to a trained and friendly operator who has a database of community programs at his or her fingertips to help you find what you’re looking for.
When you call 2-1-1 you receive confidential information or referrals to human services for every day needs or more complex problems. With an increasing amount of programs and services is available, it can often be confusing to know the right place to call. In many cases people end up going without necessary and readily available services because they did not know where to start.
But 2-1-1 eliminates the confusion, because there is information about resources like food banks, rent assistance, utility assistance, support groups, counseling, financial assistance, transportation information, respite care, independent living programs, child care, protective services and more.
School will be out in a couple of months and it’s a perfect opportunity for you to pick up the phone and utilize 2-1-1’s resources. You can learn about the range of age-appropriate activities for your children. This may include your local library’s hours and how to get involved in its summer reading program or details about summer camp options and other local recreation programs.
These services aren’t limited to only the Marshfield area. In February 2006, 46 percent of the U.S. population had access to 2-1-1 services. In January 2008, coverage has expanded to 76 percent. Twenty-four states have 100 percent coverage—including Wisconsin—with the rest in implementation stages.
Marshfield Area United Way and United Way of Inner Wisconsin partner to provide the Marshfield area 2-1-1 services, available 24 hours a day, everyday.
Get connected to the information you are looking for any time day or night by dialing 2-1-1 or visiting www.getconnected211.org.
Contributed by Stacey Oelrich, United Way’s 2-1-1 Program Coordinator and Communications Director
Friday, April 18, 2008
Finding information is as easy as dialing 2-1-1
By Stacey Oelrich, United Way's 2-1-1 Program Coordinator and Communications Director
Every hour of every day, someone in the United States needs essential services—and the Marshfield area is no exception. A single mom is looking to secure adequate child care, a family is searching for social options for a disabled relative or an adult son needs help caring for his aging parents.
There is one place these three people and others can turn to get connected and get answers: United Way’s 2-1-1.
By dialing 2-1-1, you are connected to a trained and friendly operator who has a database of community programs at his or her fingertips to help you find what you’re looking for.
When you call 2-1-1 you receive confidential information or referrals to human services for every day needs or more complex problems. With an increasing amount of programs and services is available, it can often be confusing to know the right place to call. In many cases people end up going without necessary and readily available services because they did not know where to start.
But 2-1-1 eliminates the confusion, because there is information about resources like food banks, rent assistance, utility assistance, support groups, counseling, financial assistance, transportation information, respite care, independent living programs, child care, protective services and more.
School will be out in a couple of months and it’s a perfect opportunity for you to pick up the phone and utilize 2-1-1’s resources. You can learn about the range of age-appropriate activities for your children. This may include your local library’s hours and how to get involved in its summer reading program or details about summer camp options and other local recreation programs.
These services aren’t limited to only the Marshfield area. In February 2006, 46 percent of the U.S. population had access to 2-1-1 services. In January 2008, coverage has expanded to 76 percent. Twenty-four states have 100 percent coverage—including Wisconsin—with the rest in implementation stages.
Marshfield Area United Way and United Way of Inner Wisconsin partner to provide the Marshfield area 2-1-1 services, available 24 hours a day, everyday.
Get connected to the information you are looking for any time day or night by dialing 2-1-1 or visiting www.getconnected211.org.
Every hour of every day, someone in the United States needs essential services—and the Marshfield area is no exception. A single mom is looking to secure adequate child care, a family is searching for social options for a disabled relative or an adult son needs help caring for his aging parents.
There is one place these three people and others can turn to get connected and get answers: United Way’s 2-1-1.
By dialing 2-1-1, you are connected to a trained and friendly operator who has a database of community programs at his or her fingertips to help you find what you’re looking for.
When you call 2-1-1 you receive confidential information or referrals to human services for every day needs or more complex problems. With an increasing amount of programs and services is available, it can often be confusing to know the right place to call. In many cases people end up going without necessary and readily available services because they did not know where to start.
But 2-1-1 eliminates the confusion, because there is information about resources like food banks, rent assistance, utility assistance, support groups, counseling, financial assistance, transportation information, respite care, independent living programs, child care, protective services and more.
School will be out in a couple of months and it’s a perfect opportunity for you to pick up the phone and utilize 2-1-1’s resources. You can learn about the range of age-appropriate activities for your children. This may include your local library’s hours and how to get involved in its summer reading program or details about summer camp options and other local recreation programs.
These services aren’t limited to only the Marshfield area. In February 2006, 46 percent of the U.S. population had access to 2-1-1 services. In January 2008, coverage has expanded to 76 percent. Twenty-four states have 100 percent coverage—including Wisconsin—with the rest in implementation stages.
Marshfield Area United Way and United Way of Inner Wisconsin partner to provide the Marshfield area 2-1-1 services, available 24 hours a day, everyday.
Get connected to the information you are looking for any time day or night by dialing 2-1-1 or visiting www.getconnected211.org.
Friday, March 21, 2008
Like movies, United Way is a collaborative effort
By Stacey Oelrich, Communications Director
I have spring fever, but that doesn’t make the snow go away any faster. So, I find myself with the opportunity to dust off favorites from my DVD collection.
After watching a DVD, I always check back to the main menu to see if the film makers included special features. It is such a treat to see behind the lights, effects and editing to experience the journey taken in the film’s production.
If Marshfield area’s daily life was captured for the silver screen, United Way’s work has a chapter in these special features.
Marshfield Area United Way’s mission is to increase our community’s capacity to care for one another. Through this mission, it is our goal to provide individuals and families the building blocks to a better life. But like the movies, the final product represents only a fraction of the work.
Our work starts with identifying community needs and evaluating services during Vision Councils. Then these needs and results are taken to a committee that reviews program funding applications.
Like making movies, creating positive change in a community takes a huge collaborative effort. Our volunteers take the matter of investing contributor dollars very seriously. They make hard decisions to fund programs that address the Marshfield area’s most critical needs.
Funded programs work to get the heart of an issue, identifying the root cause. Their programming offers preventative measures as well as helps individuals and families work towards change.
You can see this change in our results. Youth are receiving a good start, building self-esteem and decision making skills. Families are gaining financial stability, learning to budget and working their way out of debt. Individuals and families are getting back on track through support and counseling.
So the next time you finish a movie, I encourage you to check those special features. Watch a commentary from the cast or a look at the technology of special effects. Remember the two hours you just experienced is only a fraction of the hard work.
Life in our community is the same. Take the time to enjoy the feature, but also to appreciate the efforts behind the scenes. United Way, volunteers and programs are working every day of the year to make the Marshfield area a better place to live and work.
To learn more about United Way’s results and how you can be a part of change visit marshfieldareauntiedway.org or call 394-9992.
I have spring fever, but that doesn’t make the snow go away any faster. So, I find myself with the opportunity to dust off favorites from my DVD collection.
After watching a DVD, I always check back to the main menu to see if the film makers included special features. It is such a treat to see behind the lights, effects and editing to experience the journey taken in the film’s production.
If Marshfield area’s daily life was captured for the silver screen, United Way’s work has a chapter in these special features.
Marshfield Area United Way’s mission is to increase our community’s capacity to care for one another. Through this mission, it is our goal to provide individuals and families the building blocks to a better life. But like the movies, the final product represents only a fraction of the work.
Our work starts with identifying community needs and evaluating services during Vision Councils. Then these needs and results are taken to a committee that reviews program funding applications.
Like making movies, creating positive change in a community takes a huge collaborative effort. Our volunteers take the matter of investing contributor dollars very seriously. They make hard decisions to fund programs that address the Marshfield area’s most critical needs.
Funded programs work to get the heart of an issue, identifying the root cause. Their programming offers preventative measures as well as helps individuals and families work towards change.
You can see this change in our results. Youth are receiving a good start, building self-esteem and decision making skills. Families are gaining financial stability, learning to budget and working their way out of debt. Individuals and families are getting back on track through support and counseling.
So the next time you finish a movie, I encourage you to check those special features. Watch a commentary from the cast or a look at the technology of special effects. Remember the two hours you just experienced is only a fraction of the hard work.
Life in our community is the same. Take the time to enjoy the feature, but also to appreciate the efforts behind the scenes. United Way, volunteers and programs are working every day of the year to make the Marshfield area a better place to live and work.
To learn more about United Way’s results and how you can be a part of change visit marshfieldareauntiedway.org or call 394-9992.
Monday, February 18, 2008
Volunteers are the Heart of our Community
The value of volunteering was instilled in me by my Mother. I will be honest, in the beginning I didn’t want to help out by volunteering. We were volunteering for our Church and generally Mom signed me up to work with her. In most cases I made my reservations very clear. She once said “if you want to be a part of this Church and reap its benefits then you have to support it.” At the time I never knew how much of an impact it would have on me. In the end when it came right down to it, I enjoyed everything she signed me up for. And she was right, I got a warm fun fuzzy feeling when I volunteered.
Before long I began volunteering on my own in my high school years and into adulthood. I am now signing up my own children to work at the same soup suppers, at the same church, and yes, telling them the same thing my mother told me. It is my hope that I can pass on to them the personal value and importance my Mother gave to me. She had a beautiful point. No matter what you belong to or where you live, you are a member of a community and it is important to volunteer your time to support it.
Volunteers are the life blood of a community. There are many wonderful activities volunteers take part in everyday. They help many organizations, schools, churches function with daily tasks and special events. Whether you volunteer with your family, or alone, you are driving community results and making an impact in those you serve. The benefits of volunteers are really immeasurable and yes, priceless.
Take some time to think of people you know who help this community or an organization be. Many of them are your family, friends, co-workers or the person who is always volunteering at your organizations events. Please take the time to thank them and help the Marshfield Area United Way, Volunteer Center and the Marshfield News Herald by nominating these outstanding individuals and groups for Volunteer of the Year.
Marshfield area volunteers are the heart of our community making an impact everyday. Nominated volunteers will be recognized at our 12th Annual Volunteer of the Year Recognition Event, Tuesday, April 1, at the Marshfield Eagles from 4 – 5:30 p.m. Together we can say thanks and relish in the joy of being a community that is rich with people who care! Nomination forms and criteria are in today’s paper. You can also find it at: www.marshfieldareaunitedway.org or call 384-9992. Written nominations must be received by 4 p.m., Tuesday, March 11, 2008.
Contributed by: Sarah Krenn, Community Impact/Volunteer Center Coordinator
Before long I began volunteering on my own in my high school years and into adulthood. I am now signing up my own children to work at the same soup suppers, at the same church, and yes, telling them the same thing my mother told me. It is my hope that I can pass on to them the personal value and importance my Mother gave to me. She had a beautiful point. No matter what you belong to or where you live, you are a member of a community and it is important to volunteer your time to support it.
Volunteers are the life blood of a community. There are many wonderful activities volunteers take part in everyday. They help many organizations, schools, churches function with daily tasks and special events. Whether you volunteer with your family, or alone, you are driving community results and making an impact in those you serve. The benefits of volunteers are really immeasurable and yes, priceless.
Take some time to think of people you know who help this community or an organization be. Many of them are your family, friends, co-workers or the person who is always volunteering at your organizations events. Please take the time to thank them and help the Marshfield Area United Way, Volunteer Center and the Marshfield News Herald by nominating these outstanding individuals and groups for Volunteer of the Year.
Marshfield area volunteers are the heart of our community making an impact everyday. Nominated volunteers will be recognized at our 12th Annual Volunteer of the Year Recognition Event, Tuesday, April 1, at the Marshfield Eagles from 4 – 5:30 p.m. Together we can say thanks and relish in the joy of being a community that is rich with people who care! Nomination forms and criteria are in today’s paper. You can also find it at: www.marshfieldareaunitedway.org or call 384-9992. Written nominations must be received by 4 p.m., Tuesday, March 11, 2008.
Contributed by: Sarah Krenn, Community Impact/Volunteer Center Coordinator
Friday, January 18, 2008
See the results everywhere
By Stacey Oelrich, Communications Director
As you wait in line for your morning coffee you hear a woman talking on her cell phone. She’s finally starting to work her way out of debt, and learning how to budget so she doesn’t have to live paycheck to paycheck.
At the office, the receptionist is concerned about her brother who was laid off and not sure how he’ll get his children dental care. You come home to a message on your answering machine. Your sister’s husband was violent towards her and she went to a safe place.
All of these situations have one thing in common: your friends, family and neighbors found help from United Way funded programs.
We’ve found that one in four people in the Marshfield area has used a United Way Partner Program. So, if you haven’t used one, chances are you know someone who has.
These programs shape our community with the work they do. They work to address Marshfield area’s most critical needs. Programs identify and get to the heart of each situation, so individuals and families can make lasting change instead of settling for a quick fix.
And their results are every where in the community. You can see the results in the full pantry of a family who previously went hungry. They were connected with Soup or Socks and were given help to make ends meet.
A family that lost their home to fire or natural disaster receives help from many programs in our community. But their first contact is American Red Cross (ARC). ARC also provides support and services to families who have service men and women overseas.
United Way programs give youth in our area confidence, mentor opportunities, safe activities and much more. The skills youth learn can help them throughout their lives to make good decisions. This is all possible because of the work of Big Brothers Big Sisters, Boy Scouts-Samoset Council, Camp Courage, Girl Scouts of Woodland Council, Lutheran Social Services, Pathway Partners, Spencer Kids Group, Stratford Homework Club and Youth Net.
And in 2008, United Way is funding five programs for the first time. These programs are Chippewa Valley Boy Scouts, bringing scouting opportunities to the Neillsville area; Family Resource Center, a program of Children’s Service Society; The Genesis Room, a program of Mary’s Place; Lifelong Learning Opportunities and Safe Exchange/Supervised Visitation, a program of Personal Development Center.
Your generosity reaches residents here at home by targeting the needs identified by volunteers in the community. Your contributions stay here in the Marshfield area, which includes North Wood County, Southwestern Marathon County and parts of Clark County.
Just as we say thank you to all United Way’s contributors, we recognize and thank all the people who work at and with Partner Programs. We’re proud of the work you do improving lives and strengthening our community.
The programs mentioned are only a few of United Way’s 39 funded programs. To learn more about these programs, United Way or how you can volunteer visit marshfieldareauntiedway.org or call 394-9992.
As you wait in line for your morning coffee you hear a woman talking on her cell phone. She’s finally starting to work her way out of debt, and learning how to budget so she doesn’t have to live paycheck to paycheck.
At the office, the receptionist is concerned about her brother who was laid off and not sure how he’ll get his children dental care. You come home to a message on your answering machine. Your sister’s husband was violent towards her and she went to a safe place.
All of these situations have one thing in common: your friends, family and neighbors found help from United Way funded programs.
We’ve found that one in four people in the Marshfield area has used a United Way Partner Program. So, if you haven’t used one, chances are you know someone who has.
These programs shape our community with the work they do. They work to address Marshfield area’s most critical needs. Programs identify and get to the heart of each situation, so individuals and families can make lasting change instead of settling for a quick fix.
And their results are every where in the community. You can see the results in the full pantry of a family who previously went hungry. They were connected with Soup or Socks and were given help to make ends meet.
A family that lost their home to fire or natural disaster receives help from many programs in our community. But their first contact is American Red Cross (ARC). ARC also provides support and services to families who have service men and women overseas.
United Way programs give youth in our area confidence, mentor opportunities, safe activities and much more. The skills youth learn can help them throughout their lives to make good decisions. This is all possible because of the work of Big Brothers Big Sisters, Boy Scouts-Samoset Council, Camp Courage, Girl Scouts of Woodland Council, Lutheran Social Services, Pathway Partners, Spencer Kids Group, Stratford Homework Club and Youth Net.
And in 2008, United Way is funding five programs for the first time. These programs are Chippewa Valley Boy Scouts, bringing scouting opportunities to the Neillsville area; Family Resource Center, a program of Children’s Service Society; The Genesis Room, a program of Mary’s Place; Lifelong Learning Opportunities and Safe Exchange/Supervised Visitation, a program of Personal Development Center.
Your generosity reaches residents here at home by targeting the needs identified by volunteers in the community. Your contributions stay here in the Marshfield area, which includes North Wood County, Southwestern Marathon County and parts of Clark County.
Just as we say thank you to all United Way’s contributors, we recognize and thank all the people who work at and with Partner Programs. We’re proud of the work you do improving lives and strengthening our community.
The programs mentioned are only a few of United Way’s 39 funded programs. To learn more about these programs, United Way or how you can volunteer visit marshfieldareauntiedway.org or call 394-9992.
Wednesday, December 19, 2007
Gifts to United Way create powerful change
By Stacey Oelrich, Communications Director
When I picked up my mail the other day I was greeted by the usual suspects: credit card bill, cell phone bill, two or three pieces of junk mail and something from my alma mater, UW-Green Bay (UWGB). I followed through my familiar pattern. I tossed the junk, paid the bills and set aside the UWGB envelope for later.
When I eventually got around to looking at it, I saw it was a letter asking to support the University. I received a good education from UWGB and still carry lessons learned and memories of supportive professors and staff with me, so I pulled out my checkbook.
After signing my name to the check, I realized I also wanted to support where I started my undergraduate degree, UW-Marshfield/Wood County, plus I had already made my United Way contribution earlier this fall.
With the holidays right around the corner, I paused. Could I really afford the bills, the budget for my holiday expenses and all of these donations?
A question we are frequently asked is “I give to other organizations close to my heart. Why should I give to United Way?”
We all have many organizations where we invest time and money, but United Way is the one organization that gives individuals, families and our community the building blocks for everyone to have the opportunity for a quality education that leads to a stable job, an income that can support a family through retirement and good health.
Your gift to United Way works to address the most critical needs in the Marshfield area.
United Way funded programs don’t just give people in need a quick fix that will help for a day or get them through a month. They identify the heart of the issue and then help produce real, lasting change.
Mary is missing more work, but it’s because she has trouble reading. Her company is implementing a new system and she can’t understand the new manuals to help her learn the changes. She connects to a United Way program that improves her reading skills.
Alice and Dave’s rent is past due, but it’s not Christmas shopping that has them strapped for cash. They used credit cards for everyday expenses and are overwhelmed by their mounting debt. They find a United Way program that teaches them how to budget and make a plan to pay off the credit cards.
Your contribution goes to help these people and more. You may never know the people you have helped through your generosity to United Way. But there’s always the chance one day you’ll be the one whose life has been changed for the better because of your neighbor’s generosity.
Take a moment to reflect on all the blessings in your life, the sorrow and joys alike. Then, if you’ve received a letter from Marshfield Area United Way, take another look at it and decide how you can be part of powerful change. Make a contribution. Volunteer.
To learn more, visit marshfieldareaunitedway.org or call 384-9992.
When I picked up my mail the other day I was greeted by the usual suspects: credit card bill, cell phone bill, two or three pieces of junk mail and something from my alma mater, UW-Green Bay (UWGB). I followed through my familiar pattern. I tossed the junk, paid the bills and set aside the UWGB envelope for later.
When I eventually got around to looking at it, I saw it was a letter asking to support the University. I received a good education from UWGB and still carry lessons learned and memories of supportive professors and staff with me, so I pulled out my checkbook.
After signing my name to the check, I realized I also wanted to support where I started my undergraduate degree, UW-Marshfield/Wood County, plus I had already made my United Way contribution earlier this fall.
With the holidays right around the corner, I paused. Could I really afford the bills, the budget for my holiday expenses and all of these donations?
A question we are frequently asked is “I give to other organizations close to my heart. Why should I give to United Way?”
We all have many organizations where we invest time and money, but United Way is the one organization that gives individuals, families and our community the building blocks for everyone to have the opportunity for a quality education that leads to a stable job, an income that can support a family through retirement and good health.
Your gift to United Way works to address the most critical needs in the Marshfield area.
United Way funded programs don’t just give people in need a quick fix that will help for a day or get them through a month. They identify the heart of the issue and then help produce real, lasting change.
Mary is missing more work, but it’s because she has trouble reading. Her company is implementing a new system and she can’t understand the new manuals to help her learn the changes. She connects to a United Way program that improves her reading skills.
Alice and Dave’s rent is past due, but it’s not Christmas shopping that has them strapped for cash. They used credit cards for everyday expenses and are overwhelmed by their mounting debt. They find a United Way program that teaches them how to budget and make a plan to pay off the credit cards.
Your contribution goes to help these people and more. You may never know the people you have helped through your generosity to United Way. But there’s always the chance one day you’ll be the one whose life has been changed for the better because of your neighbor’s generosity.
Take a moment to reflect on all the blessings in your life, the sorrow and joys alike. Then, if you’ve received a letter from Marshfield Area United Way, take another look at it and decide how you can be part of powerful change. Make a contribution. Volunteer.
To learn more, visit marshfieldareaunitedway.org or call 384-9992.
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
Gamez raffle supports community
Did you miss your chance to get a PlayStation3 last year? Is the video game fanatic in your life sick of their current selection of games? Check out a raffle for a $400 merchandise certificate presented by Gamez of Marshfield.
Gamez, located at 1915 North Central Ave, is raffling a $400 merchandise certificate good towards purchase of any merchandize at the store, based on availability. This includes a PlayStation3, Xbox 360 with $50 worth of games and merchandise, a Wii with $150 worth of games or merchandise.
Tickets are $2 each or 6 for $10, available at Gamez or Marshfield Area United Way through December 15. The winner will be drawn Sunday, December 16, just in time for the holiday season.
Second Prize is a $50 merchandise certificate, limited to one winner per household. Proceeds will go to Marshfield Area United Way. For more information about the raffle, call Gamez at 389-2772 or email Gamezllc@lycos.com.
Gamez, located at 1915 North Central Ave, is raffling a $400 merchandise certificate good towards purchase of any merchandize at the store, based on availability. This includes a PlayStation3, Xbox 360 with $50 worth of games and merchandise, a Wii with $150 worth of games or merchandise.
Tickets are $2 each or 6 for $10, available at Gamez or Marshfield Area United Way through December 15. The winner will be drawn Sunday, December 16, just in time for the holiday season.
Second Prize is a $50 merchandise certificate, limited to one winner per household. Proceeds will go to Marshfield Area United Way. For more information about the raffle, call Gamez at 389-2772 or email Gamezllc@lycos.com.
Friday, November 16, 2007
Working together is key to improving lives in the Marshfield area
By Stacey Oelrich, Communications Director
In the past month, United Way staff members and Drive Chairs have given 46 presentations, attended two Thank You events to wrap up workplace campaigns, shopped at book fairs and jewelry sales and visited a costume contest and decorating contest. But United Way’s business isn’t fundraising and special events alone, even though it may be when you most frequently see the staff in the community at this time of year.
Throughout the year, volunteers from all walks of life and human service organizations assess the community’s needs to identify the most critical needs affecting residents. One of these emerging needs is dental care for low income individuals and families.
Our Partner Programs from each Impact Area—Community & Basic Needs, Families & Seniors and Youth Initiatives—have reported finding dental care they qualify for makes a significant impact in the lives of the clients they see. When someone is experiencing dental issues, it goes beyond just having a toothache. It can affect the rest of their health, happiness and work or school performance.
Marshfield Area United Way does more than just come into businesses for workplace campaigns. In order to start addressing the dental need, United Way is working with a community leader, The Dental Clinic of Marshfield, to seek a solution for providing dental care to individuals on medical assistance and BadgerCare.
There is no quick fix to this problem, and United Way staff and volunteers first needed to understand the true scope of dental needs in our area. The Wisconsin Department of Health and Family Services reports there are an estimated 5,000 people on BadgerCare and medical assistance in Marshfield and the surrounding towns. In 2007, Ministry Dental Center, a United Way Partner Program, was able to serve 168 people, but still had more than 100 area residents on their waiting list.
In 2007, The Dental Clinic of Marshfield served 1800 patients on medical assistance or BadgerCare. To address the Marshfield area’s need, The Dental Clinic has coordinated an effort with Ministry Dental Center to reduce its waiting list of Marshfield area residents.
Ministry Dental Center sent a letter to area residents waiting for services, encouraging them to contact The Dental Clinic of Marshfield to see if they would qualify to receive care at its facility. This will allow qualified residents to receive services faster.
So when you see a United Way staff member or Drive Chair at a presentation or community special event, remember that United Way’s work goes beyond traditional campaign activities. It’s because of the extra efforts of businesses, like The Dental Clinic of Marshfield—outside of fundraising—that change happens. Your dollars are hard at work every day of the year, improving lives and building a strong community in the Marshfield area.
If you are interested in learning more about Marshfield Area United Way, volunteering or making a contribution, visit marshfieldareaunitedway.org or call 384-9992.
In the past month, United Way staff members and Drive Chairs have given 46 presentations, attended two Thank You events to wrap up workplace campaigns, shopped at book fairs and jewelry sales and visited a costume contest and decorating contest. But United Way’s business isn’t fundraising and special events alone, even though it may be when you most frequently see the staff in the community at this time of year.
Throughout the year, volunteers from all walks of life and human service organizations assess the community’s needs to identify the most critical needs affecting residents. One of these emerging needs is dental care for low income individuals and families.
Our Partner Programs from each Impact Area—Community & Basic Needs, Families & Seniors and Youth Initiatives—have reported finding dental care they qualify for makes a significant impact in the lives of the clients they see. When someone is experiencing dental issues, it goes beyond just having a toothache. It can affect the rest of their health, happiness and work or school performance.
Marshfield Area United Way does more than just come into businesses for workplace campaigns. In order to start addressing the dental need, United Way is working with a community leader, The Dental Clinic of Marshfield, to seek a solution for providing dental care to individuals on medical assistance and BadgerCare.
There is no quick fix to this problem, and United Way staff and volunteers first needed to understand the true scope of dental needs in our area. The Wisconsin Department of Health and Family Services reports there are an estimated 5,000 people on BadgerCare and medical assistance in Marshfield and the surrounding towns. In 2007, Ministry Dental Center, a United Way Partner Program, was able to serve 168 people, but still had more than 100 area residents on their waiting list.
In 2007, The Dental Clinic of Marshfield served 1800 patients on medical assistance or BadgerCare. To address the Marshfield area’s need, The Dental Clinic has coordinated an effort with Ministry Dental Center to reduce its waiting list of Marshfield area residents.
Ministry Dental Center sent a letter to area residents waiting for services, encouraging them to contact The Dental Clinic of Marshfield to see if they would qualify to receive care at its facility. This will allow qualified residents to receive services faster.
So when you see a United Way staff member or Drive Chair at a presentation or community special event, remember that United Way’s work goes beyond traditional campaign activities. It’s because of the extra efforts of businesses, like The Dental Clinic of Marshfield—outside of fundraising—that change happens. Your dollars are hard at work every day of the year, improving lives and building a strong community in the Marshfield area.
If you are interested in learning more about Marshfield Area United Way, volunteering or making a contribution, visit marshfieldareaunitedway.org or call 384-9992.
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
Costume contest brings fun into the workplace, raises money for community
We were treated to a Halloween Costume Contest at Marshfield Furniture.
What a sight to see: 23 employees from throughout the company put on their Halloween best and invited Drive Chair John Baur to judge the contest, as a special event for their workplace campaign.
First place went to a striking blond (Left). Chris said his costume was a collection of items left by a former girlfriend. He said he’d like to have worn high heeled shoes, but couldn’t find any with safety toes.
Second place went to Frosty the Snowman as portrayed by Carolyn. Hopefully Carolyn didn’t melt before the day was over!
Pictured below, a group shot of all the Marshfield Furniture employees who dressed up for the occasion.
From left: Standing: a jockey, Dracula's bride, a doctor, a striking blond, Marshfield Furniture's Mascot (a cardinal), laundry basket, Frosty the Snowman, Minnie Mouse, a faceless villian, a Roman goddess, the villian from Saw, an axe murder, a packer fan and the sheriff.
Kneeling: a pretty witch, a jester, a disco dancer, Ugly Betty, bedtime toddler, and "I woke up late today."
Great job everyone! We hope you enjoyed dressing up as much as we enjoyed visiting and seeing all the great costumes.
United Way grants emergency funds to feed area families
Shelves at Soup Or Socks (SOS) food pantry will be restocked soon, a relief for area families. In response to SOS’s shortage, Marshfield Area United Way took urgent action to grant emergency funds to replenish food supplies in the pantry.
At last week’s Vision Council, Cheryl Hartl, SOS program director, reported the use of her program had increased and supplies were steadily decreasing.
“We have had 200 more people using the pantry as compared to last year. Usage is up and supplies are down,” Hartl said at the Vision Council.
“I called Cheryl after the Vision Council and suggested she submit a grant request to receive supplemental funding to hold her over until upcoming food drives, said Sarah Krenn, community impact coordinator.
But as the week progressed and United Way staff continued discussing SOS’s need, it became clear that action needed to be taken right now.
United Way’s grant deadline is November 1 and Executive Director Kim Baltus and Krenn were concerned Hartl wouldn’t receive the money soon enough. After a grant is submitted, it needs to be reviewed by the Community Impact Committee and approved by the Board. A funding check wouldn’t be issued until the week of Thanksgiving.
“We needed to take immediate steps to ensure the program could continue to serve our residents,” said Baltus.
“Cheryl and I spoke about the program’s options, and issuing this emergency grant for $5,000 was the best way to address this need and get them through December 31, 2007. We didn’t want the program to continue in this deficit or run out of food again in late December,” Krenn said.
Marshfield Area United Way’s quick response to make a great community impact was because of the generosity of last year’s contributions to its annual campaign. To help United Way continue its work with programs in our community, like Soup Or Socks, you can contributed to its 2007 campaign by giving through your workplace, call the United Way office at 384-9992 or visit marshfieldareaunitedway.org.
At last week’s Vision Council, Cheryl Hartl, SOS program director, reported the use of her program had increased and supplies were steadily decreasing.
“We have had 200 more people using the pantry as compared to last year. Usage is up and supplies are down,” Hartl said at the Vision Council.
“I called Cheryl after the Vision Council and suggested she submit a grant request to receive supplemental funding to hold her over until upcoming food drives, said Sarah Krenn, community impact coordinator.
But as the week progressed and United Way staff continued discussing SOS’s need, it became clear that action needed to be taken right now.
United Way’s grant deadline is November 1 and Executive Director Kim Baltus and Krenn were concerned Hartl wouldn’t receive the money soon enough. After a grant is submitted, it needs to be reviewed by the Community Impact Committee and approved by the Board. A funding check wouldn’t be issued until the week of Thanksgiving.
“We needed to take immediate steps to ensure the program could continue to serve our residents,” said Baltus.
“Cheryl and I spoke about the program’s options, and issuing this emergency grant for $5,000 was the best way to address this need and get them through December 31, 2007. We didn’t want the program to continue in this deficit or run out of food again in late December,” Krenn said.
Marshfield Area United Way’s quick response to make a great community impact was because of the generosity of last year’s contributions to its annual campaign. To help United Way continue its work with programs in our community, like Soup Or Socks, you can contributed to its 2007 campaign by giving through your workplace, call the United Way office at 384-9992 or visit marshfieldareaunitedway.org.
Friday, October 19, 2007
Decorating heroes add flair and creativity to Figi's, Inc.'s campaign
Figi’s, Inc. employees broke out their creative sides for the department decorating contest. “Last year everyone did such a wonderful job, but after walking around to look at each department’s decorating … I had rewrite my speech (for tomorrow’s presentation)!”
One department recreated Marshfield in cardboard (Right)--including the Figi's building, city hall, and buildings where United Way Partner Programs are located. A "bus" greeted us at the entrance to take the United Way tour (Left).
Another great idea many of the departments had were to collect donations of nonperishable foods for the local food pantry and United Way Program, Soup Or Socks. (Right)
Information Systems created a haunted spooktacular by closing off their space with black curtains and set a perfect atmosphere with spooky music and fog! Pictured at left, a skeleton demonstrates the importance of maintaining a good dental hygiene. Many of the Partner Programs received this haunted makeover including: Boy Scouts, Red Cross, Kiddie Kaboose and more!
Thank you Figi’s, Inc. and all the employees who participated in this fun, creative event! It was such a pleasure for United Way staff and Drive Chairs to visit these amazing transformed spaces.
Decorations this year were encouraged to follow the theme “Heroes Among Us” and incorporate United Way. After visiting all the locations, the Figi’s United Way committee, which served as judges, had a hard time choosing winners.
One department recreated Marshfield in cardboard (Right)--including the Figi's building, city hall, and buildings where United Way Partner Programs are located. A "bus" greeted us at the entrance to take the United Way tour (Left).
Marketing transformed their space into a Gallery of Heroes, complete with mood lighting, a snack for the judges and displays with real-life heroes in our country. (Left, Gallery of Heroes Sign at entrance of display).
Pictured at right, a display representing United Way Partner Program, Kiddie Kaboose. The department responsible for this display used their space to showcase many Partner Programs including: Girl Scouts, Youth Net, Big Brothers Big Sisters, United Way's 2-1-1 and more!
We were also treated to another type of gallery of heroes--but these heroes hit a little closer to home. The walls were lined with uniforms from service men and women related to the employees. (Left)
Another section of this area was dedicated to every day heroes such as nurses, firefighters, police officers and more. (Right)
Superheroes also made a couple appearances. In the Executive Offices, a display showcased 101 Ways to Care and familiar faces dressed as favorite caped crusaders. (Left)
Pictured at right, this department brought patriotism to their decorating with red, white and blue color scheme. Hanging from the ceiling is the name of each Partner Program printed on a card and the balloons have the name of the employees in the department. Hershey "Hero" candy bars were placed on the table. (It never hurts to bribe the judges with chocolate and other treats. Many of the departments embraced this idea.)
Accounting placed their employees in capes as well. Printed pictures were hung from the ceiling with a cape and name of a Partner Program on the shield. (Left) They also did a little homework and found each program's funding amount for 2007 and placed checks around the department depicting how much money goes to each program.
It was a creative and informational way to utilize the theme and incorporate United Way.
Another great idea many of the departments had were to collect donations of nonperishable foods for the local food pantry and United Way Program, Soup Or Socks. (Right)
Information Systems created a haunted spooktacular by closing off their space with black curtains and set a perfect atmosphere with spooky music and fog! Pictured at left, a skeleton demonstrates the importance of maintaining a good dental hygiene. Many of the Partner Programs received this haunted makeover including: Boy Scouts, Red Cross, Kiddie Kaboose and more!
Thank you Figi’s, Inc. and all the employees who participated in this fun, creative event! It was such a pleasure for United Way staff and Drive Chairs to visit these amazing transformed spaces.
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