President

Times are so uncertain right now, and it has been far from “business as usual” for many in our community, especially for corporations, small businesses, and our school systems. Many are facing budget cuts, decreases in staffing, limited inventory, and other unique challenges. United Way and our community partners are no exception. We have had to make some difficult decisions along the way, but more than anything, we want our community to know that we are still in business-- the business of Building Better Futures.

Give. Advocate. Volunteer. United Way of Northwest Georgia employees and volunteers alike keep these three words at the top of mind whenever conversation around our mission arises around town. We must always be ready to share our “elevator speech” (or for our community, hallway speech may be more appropriate). We continually remind ourselves and anyone that will listen how important it is to be a cheerleader for this very special community. We all contribute in our own way.

Today is Mother’s Day. During these unprecedented times, I think we could all use a reason to celebrate the amazing women in our lives!

For many moms, these times have been even more challenging as they have taken on new roles - homeschooling their children, tending to daily household tasks, and for many mothers, also working from home.

A Message from Joe Young, United Way Board Chair, and Amanda Burt, President

We hope you and your family are doing well and navigating the changes we are all experiencing related to Covid-19. 

We wanted to share with you some updates from United Way and our funding in support of Covid-19.

These are indeed uncertain times.

No one could have predicted that a pandemic would rise up and affect so many lives in a matter of weeks.

Most organizations do not plan for a pandemic and its ripple effects on the economy. We are in uncharted waters as these circumstances affect the globe, not just our community.

A Message from Joe Young, United Way Board Chair, and Amanda Burt, President

Although we aren’t meeting in person now, and business as usual is anything but usual, a lot is happening at United Way and with our community partners on the front lines of the Covid-19 crisis. 

We want to share some quick updates and actions United Way has taken. 

When I think of our community, one word, in particular, comes to mind...compassionate.

Having just returned from the National President's Roundtable meeting with other United Way colleagues from across the United States, I am reminded how lucky I am to live and raise my family in Dalton, Georgia.

During our time together, we shared stories of the life-changing work we are all doing in our communities. We shared our wins, our losses, and what keeps us up at night.

We all know that February is most recognized as a month focused on love. We celebrate Valentine’s Day by gifting stuffed animals, chocolates, and flowers for those who are special in our lives. 

These are the “Hallmark” ways of showing love to each other.  But, what if I told you that you could share your love a little differently this February?

Be a good neighbor.

Every person, I believe, wants to make a difference in his or her community. But where does one begin? How does one go about giving back for a life they have been richly blessed with? For me, that journey started seven years ago, arriving in Dalton, Georgia, from the Chicago, Illinois area.

As a teenager, I heard a quote from Ronald Reagan. He stated, “We can’t help everyone, but everyone can help someone.”

During this holiday season of giving and all the hustle and bustle, we can sometimes forget that not everyone has something to celebrate.

The holidays can be an unwelcome reminder to many of what they have lost, but here at United Way we help individuals and families see hope for a better tomorrow. 

At United Way, we are in the business of building better futures, not just during the holiday season, but 365 days a year.