As April unfolds its vibrant colors and flowers, it's not
just the blooming flowers that are deserving of our attention and appreciation.
In central Illinois, amidst the bustling streets and tranquil neighborhoods,
lies a network of individuals who continually show the true spirit of community
service. They are the volunteers of our community and of United Way of Central
Illinois, and as we celebrate Volunteer Appreciation Month in April, it's time
to shine a spotlight on these unsung heroes who dedicate their time, energy and
passion to making a difference in the lives of others.
For decades, United Way has been a beacon of hope and
support, serving as a catalyst for positive change in communities across the
nation. In central Illinois, this nonprofit organization has been instrumental
in addressing critical social issues, from education and health to financial
stability and basic needs. But behind every successful initiative and program
lies the driving force of volunteers who selflessly give their talents and
resources to drive impact and create lasting change.
At the heart of United Way's volunteer network are
individuals from all walks of life, each with a unique story and a shared
commitment to service. Whether it's lending a helping hand during our Day of
Action, tutoring students after school or assisting with fundraising efforts,
these volunteers embody the essence of compassion and empathy. They are the
backbone of United Way's mission, tirelessly working behind the scenes to
uplift their communities and empower those in need.
One such volunteer is Beverly Chapman, a trust administrative
officer at Bank of Springfield and an active United Way volunteer who currently
serves on our Basic Needs Vision Council. “When making a volunteering commitment with the
United Way of Central Illinois, you are giving your heart to those in our
community who are simply trying to get ahead. We all have gifts to share, but
the biggest and most impactful gift is the opportunity to make a positive
difference to people’s lives, helping them thrive.” Beverly adds, “Volunteering
with the United Way provides an opportunity to connect with other community
members, learn new skills and embrace a better understanding of the challenges
facing many in our community.”
Beverly is just one of the countless volunteers who
contribute their time and talents to United Way's various programs and
initiatives. From analyzing grant applications from local programs to assisting
with outreach campaigns, these individuals play a pivotal role in advancing the
organization's mission of building a stronger, more vibrant community for all.
But the impact of United Way volunteers extends far beyond
the tangible results of their efforts. Their dedication and commitment inspire
others to get involved and make a difference in their own communities. Through
their acts of kindness and generosity, they foster a sense of unity and
solidarity that brings people together.
As Volunteer Appreciation Month unfolds, United Way of
Central Illinois is taking the opportunity to express its deepest gratitude to
its volunteers. Our staff has created special “Shout Outs” for board members,
key committee members and others and will have it on display throughout this
month on a bulletin board in our office. One staff member noted that “gratitude
is contagious” and by thanking our volunteers, we hope that everyone feels
appreciated and will in turn thank others for their dedication.
"Volunteers are the lifeblood of United Way," says
Marne Fauser, CEO and president of United Way of Central Illinois. “Their
passion, dedication, and tireless efforts are the driving force behind
everything we do. Without them, we simply wouldn't be able to fulfill our
mission of creating positive, transformative change in our community.”
In addition to honoring its current volunteers, United Way
is also reaching out to the broader community to encourage more people to get
involved. Through social media campaigns, volunteer fairs, and outreach
initiatives, the organization is spreading the message that everyone has
something valuable to contribute and that even the smallest act of kindness can
make a difference.
“Volunteerism is at the heart of who we are as a community,”
says Stacy Kelly, Volunteer and Program Coordinator at United Way of Central
Illinois. “By coming together and pooling our resources, talents, and passions,
we have the power to create a community where everyone has the opportunity to
thrive.”
As Volunteer Appreciation Month continues, we thank each of
you who volunteers in our community. You are making a difference. Your selfless
acts of kindness and compassion serve as a reminder that, in a world filled
with challenges and uncertainties, the spirit of generosity and service has the
power to create meaningful and lasting change.
Tina Prather is the director of marketing and communications
at United
Way of Central Illinois. Find out more about volunteering at www.uwcil.org.
