Welcome our 2011-2012 Campaign Co-Chairs

I support United Way because it is an agency that is making a difference in the lives of people in our community. The agencies we support through United Way are doing a great job of improving the quality of life for those in need. Mamie and I have been involved with United Way for over 30 years as donors and volunteers. I truly believe in the mission of the United Way and am thankful that I am able to assist in some small way in improving the quality of life for the citizens of Greenwood and Abbeville Counties. Working together, we can accomplish great things.

I started participation with United Way when I first joined Capsugel in 1978. At that time, it was basically a given that you participate and I am glad that it was. Looking back, I understand now that when you are young that you sometimes don’t think of your responsibility to give back to the community. And that is how I see it – those who are fortunate enough have an obligation to help those who are less fortunate and that need a little help to keep going. You may not be able to give back very much but the fact that you do participate is a good experience and a good one to pass on to our children. There are two main factors that make me confident to participate in United Way. The First is that the money stays at home – in the community and is not funneled off to some national organization to come back later. The Second is that the funds go to those that are in the most need – I have been part of a committee that interviews those organizations requesting assistance and there is nothing automatic about funding these organizations. They must prove each year that the funds are needed. I would urge everyone to do what you can to help those in need – every dollar that you give is helping someone, somewhere to survive a crisis in their life.