A Year in Review -

A Message from Pat Wener, 2007 Volunteer Immediate Past President

I am mindful of the continued struggles that United Way faces in its yearly goal to raise dollars to support our 33 non-profit health and service agencies operating in support of our community. This year has once again been full of challenges that have made the efforts to raise dollars more difficult.

As of the time that I am writing my letter to the community, the campaign goal of $605,000 has not yet been reached, however, I have every confidence in our community that our goal will be met. There are many definitions of success.

Our volunteers continue to strive to accomplish the goals of raising the much needed dollars. Their unselfish and unrelenting efforts are, in my estimation, a tribute to United Way and its mission. Our volunteers “never give up” and as a result of their perseverance, the United Way continues to make a difference in the community.

We also owe a tremendous amount of thanks to the numerous contributions from the Rutland County Media. It is through their efforts that the United Way activities are continually visible in our community. Special thanks to the Rutland Herald, Sam’s Good News, The Rutland Tribune, Channel 15/Peg TV, the Rutland Business Journal, Tree Frog Studio, WestView Digital, Catamount Radio, WSYB/Z97 and Comcast. I would also like to recognize the contributions of Alderman’s Chevrolet/Toyota and WestView Digital for their creation of a new Campaign Video. This video focused on a number of agencies that are direct recipients of some of the United Way Dollars. and spread the word of how important they are to a wide variety of individuals in the Rutland area. It also focused on the volunteers within the community and how they are integral to the success of the agency programs. We are very fortunate to have the support and expertise of these individuals to be able to keep the community informed in such an effective and heartfelt manner.

I would like to express my sincere appreciation to our Executive Director who has been an integral part of this past year’s campaign process. Chuck Sharp is the epitome of an Executive Director and as a result, the whole process works. From the allocation process, to the final annual meeting, Chuck, Candy, Donna and Caroline, work tirelessly to assure that all goes smoothly.

As my year as president is ending, I would like everyone to know how honored I was to have served in this capacity. Words do not express my heartfelt thanks to all of you; allocation and campaign volunteers, donors, and board of directors and this year’s campaign chair; that year after year, are able to rise to the occasion and fund a successful United Way campaign. Yes, there are many definitions of success. This campaign’s success is measured in the commitment and passion of its community and volunteers. This commitment is admirable and will always result in a successful campaign.