LETTER TO THE COMMUNITY

Dear Friends and Supporters:

Last year was certainly one to remember.

Despite a challenging economic environment, our 2008 campaign raised more than $1.1 million. We were gratified by the community's generous response, especially when so many of our neighbors and supporters face such difficult times.

The year had many bright spots, including the launch of LIVE UNITED, a transformational movement that calls upon each of us to give, advocate and volunteer, in order to advance the common good. At United Way of Missoula County, we took that message to heart, broadening our communication and outreach efforts to include new opportunities for everyone - donors, volunteers, funded programs, board members and staff - to LIVE UNITED.

At United Way, we envision a world where all individuals and families achieve their potential through education, income stability and leading healthy lives. We imagine - and are working toward - a community that fosters hope and opportunity for everyone. A community in which...

  • All children receive a quality education that offers a pathway to a brighter tomorrow;
  • The cycle of poverty and financial dependence ends, and productive livelihoods begin, for even the most disadvantaged;
  • All people receive effective health care that improves their quality of life.

    Going forward, in collaboration with a broad array of partners, we will hold ourselves accountable for advancing these goals through a steadfast commitment that will include continually measuring improvements in education, income and health.

    Also in 2008, we continued to do what we have done throughout our almost 80-year history: invest in the work of outstanding health and human-service programs. United Way of Missoula County provided more than $720,000 in grants to more than 30 carefully screened prevention and safety-net programs, and allocated another $88,000+ in donor-designated dollars. While we know that our funds will be reduced in 2009, we are confident in our ability to continue doing as much good as we can with the resources available to us.

    As we address today's challenges and embrace tomorrow's opportunities, we are deeply grateful to our friends and supporters. As you read through these pages, we hope you feel our sense of accomplishment, energy and optimism.

    Thank you for being part of our story. Thank you for helping us write the next chapter. Thank you for Living United.

    Susan Hay Cramer             Robert A. Homer
    Chief Executive Officer             President, 2007-08

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