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211 in action
Some days, CIC work falls into a routine: Energy assistance, rent, food stamps, energy assistance, rent, food stamps. And then a call comes along that requires so much more – and reminds us once again why our work has such value. Our good work with routine calls can ease people’s burdens before they reach the point where everything in a caller’s life is falling apart.
Here’s one of those calls:
The caller saw an article about 211 in Newberg’s city newsletter, which was tucked into her water bill, and she decided to call—even though she was pretty sure any assistance programs would be only for people with children at home.
The caller and her husband moved to Oregon for the husband’s job. He makes $1,600 a month; the caller has not been able to find a job. When they lived in the South, they paid $200 a month for an apartment, but in Oregon they are paying $650 a month. The caller has a chronic illness; they have insurance but can’t afford the co-pays.
“We are choosing between paying rent and paying for my insulin,” the caller said.
Because her husband has a job, the couple do not consider themselves “low-income.” They have been going to churches for hot meals, but they had no idea they were eligible for food stamps – or could go to food pantries. The caller was relieved to learn that in Oregon, one person in five is using food stamps.
The caller was surprised to find out that there were several programs that she might be eligible for: SNAP, food pantries, electrical assistance, water assistance, prescription assistance – and perhaps a one-time grant from Your Next Step Grants, which targets the working poor.
It’s safe to say 211 has a new champion in Yamhill County: a caller who took a chance because of something she saw in her water bill, and who now stands a chance of maintaining her health and her housing, and of having a reliable source of food.
United Way Transitions HandsOn Mid-Willamette Valley to become part of Community Action Agency
January 12, 2012
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
United Way Transitions HandsOn Mid-Willamette Valley to become part of Community Action Agency
As part of a community-wide initiative fostered in 2006, HandsOn Mid-Willamette Valley was started to support non-profits seeking volunteers and to satisfy the needs of volunteers to make meaningful connections to these opportunities. Originally called the Volunteer and Mentor Center, HandsOn has been housed at the United Way of the Mid-Willamette Valley for the past five years and has flourished during this time. Currently, HandsOn supports the work of over 200 community partners in building effective volunteer management strategies throughout Marion, Polk and Yamhill counties.
Since its inception, a large portion of the financial support and resources required to operate HandsOn have come directly from the United Way. The original plan for HandsOn was to start and grow the program and then successfully transition it out of the United Way. On February 1, 2012 United Way will transition the HandsOn program and services permanently to Community Action Agency, a long-time and well established United Way community partner.
Community Action is a private non-profit 501(c)3, operating seven programs that primarily serve Marion and Polk counties, with some services reaching as far as Lincoln and Tillamook Counties. Community Action’s priority is to develop long-term strategies to lessen poverty by identifying solutions, delivery services, and moving individuals and families toward self-sufficiency. HandsOn’s emphasis on community wide volunteer involvement aligns perfectly with Community Action’s mission and vision for a stronger community.
“We are thrilled to bring HandsOn into the Community Action family. This final step in this great collaborative effort is a testament to the strength of this program and the outstanding future that a waits”, Teresa Cox, CAA Executive Director.
“United Way is committed to nurturing and growing great community assets like HandsOn. This program is successful and ready to be on its own. We celebrate the transition of this program to Community Action Agency”. Jim Edmonds, United Way Board President.
For more information Cyndi Astley @ (503) 585-6232 or .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
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United Way offers bus passes to non profits.
The application for Cherriots bus passes for April through June 2012 is now available
Please click here to be taken to the application page.
United Way begins its annual drive for workplace donations
The United Way of the Mid-Willamette Valley held its annual campaign kick-off event Sept. 14. This luncheon marked the start of United Way’s workplace campaign effort. Workplace campaigns offer companies the opportunity to encourage giving, volunteering and advocacy in the workplace according to their overall corporate strategy and the values of their employees.
A workplace campaign offers a convenient, efficient way for employees to learn more about critical and urgent human services issues in the community and make personal, well-informed choices about how to get involved. It’s a chance for employees to learn about how past contributions have led to positive outcomes and change in our community. A United Way campaign also provides important information about programs and services that employees can use for themselves or share with friends and family.
Through payroll pledges, employees can support the United Way’s Community Impact Fund or direct their contributions toward any 501(c)(3) they feel passionate about. The United Way’s HandsOn Volunteer Action Center offers options for engaging in quality volunteer experiences. The Gifts in Kind program offers companies a chance to donate merchandise or surplus equipment that will be redistributed to nonprofit organizations.
Mid-Valley 211 is another essential resource that all employees need to be aware of.
No company is too large or too small to consider how they want to get involved in or expand community engagement.
Often, a company will rally employees around a common cause such as illiteracy, domestic violence or homeless teenagers. The focus on a common goal helps build morale and teamwork.
One company chose to focus on programs that help seniors become more independent after realizing that many employees were involved in caring for their parents. Their campaign included a United Way volunteer who talked about how to get connected to resources via Mid-Valley 211 and specific senior-related programs the United Way funds.
The United Way also brought in a speaker from an agency that works directly with seniors.
In addition, volunteer activities were organized that enabled employees to engage in different experiences with seniors and to better understand the outcomes of the services provided.
The mission of the United Way is to unite people and resources for a stronger community.
To learn more about how to host a United Way workplace campaign, schedule a presentation or receive informational materials for distribution, call Terianne Petzold at (503) 363-1651.
United Way Announces Departure of Executive Director
United Way Announces Departure of Executive Director
SALEM, OR (September 13, 2011) – The United Way of the Mid-Willamette Valley announced today that Gayle Caldarazzo will step down from her role as executive director and CEO on September 30.
After four years at the helm, Caldarazzo is: “excited about upcoming changes and looking forward to starting a new chapter in my life.” She promises to continue her support of the community and the United Way as an active volunteer.
Under Caldarazzo’s guidance, the United Way formalized the development of an updated community impact model, which focuses on investing in programs and partnerships that address priority issues affecting the tri-county region. Her effort to bring the United Way more in line with United Way Worldwide resulted in a more streamlined focus on issues concerning education, income and health on the local level. She is a passionate supporter of HandsOn Mid-Willamette Valley and worked hard to get the volunteer action center up and running as a United Way initiative. She also worked to expand the fundraising campaign to Yamhill county and supported the expansion of the Yamhill 211 helpline to Marion and Polk counties.
“Gayle has been an enthusiastic leader for the past four years,” stated Jim Edmonds of Fetherston Edmonds, and current board president. “We appreciate her many contributions and wish her well.”
Edmonds noted the board of directors is working on a recruitment strategy, which they believe will commence soon after Caldarazzo’s departure. Meanwhile, the staff will move forward under the direction of interim director Mike Derochier.
Become and AmeriCorps VISTA with HandsOn and HOME Youth and Resource Center!
Join HandsOn Mid-Willamette Valley for a one year AmeriCorps VISTA position. They are seeking a motivated individual who has a passion for working with youth and is enthusiastic about volunteerism. This position will begin in November and run through the end of October 2012. HandsOn’s goal with this position is to increase service engagement of under-resourced youth in a low-income neighborhood, as a pilot for how we might support an asset-based approach to engagement across our region.
Interested applicants can click here to learn more and apply.
Free lunch program reduces service sites
Salem-Keizer Summer Food Service Program
Sites are open Monday-Friday unless otherwise specified. All sites are closed July 4.
Breakfast and Lunch
-Bush Elementary School, 410 14th St. SE; 8:45-9 a.m.; noon-12:30 p.m.; Mondays-Thursdays, July 11-28
-Hallman Elementary School, 4000 Deerhaven Drive NE, Keizer, 8-8:30 a.m.; 11:30 a.m. to noon; Mondays-Thursdays, July 18-Aug. 11
-Houck Middle School, 1155 Connecticut St. SE, 8:45-9:30 a.m.; 12:15-1p.m., June 27-July 28
-North Salem High School, 765 14th St. NE, 8-8:30 a.m., noon-1 p.m., June 27-July 29
-Stephens Middle School, 4962 Hayesville Drive NE, 7:30-8 a.m.; 12:30-1 p.m., July 11-Aug. 12
-Yoshikai Elementary School, 4900 Jade St. NE, 8:30-9 a.m.; 11:45 a.m. to 1:15 p.m., June 22-July 21
Lunch only
-Kroc Center, 1835 Bill Frey Drive NE, noon-12:30 p.m., June 28-Aug. 27
-Colonia Libertad, 2921 Saddle Club Road SE, noon-12:30 p.m.; Mondays-Thursdays, June 15-Sept. 1
Lunch and Snack
-Eastwood Boys & Girls Club, 1120 Savage Road NE, noon-12:30 p.m.; 3-3:15 p.m., June 17-Sept. 2
-Keizer Boys & Girls Club, 4840 Noren Ave. NE, Keizer, noon-12:30 p.m.; 3-3:15 p.m., June 17-Sept. 2
-Knudson Boys & Girls Club, 1395 Summer St. NE, noon-12:30 p.m.; 3-3:15 p.m., June 17-Sept. 2
-Swegle Boys & Girls Club, 4445 Market St. NE, noon-12:30 p.m.; 3-3:30 p.m., June 17-Sept. 2
Source: Salem-Keizer School District
Congratulations 2011 Spirit of America and Summit award winners
Congratulations 2011 Spirit of America and Summit award winners!
Spirit of America Award Winner: US Bank
United Way is honored to present the 2011 United Way Spirit of America Award to U.S. Bank. In communities across the United States, U.S. Bank and its employees leverage their unique expertise to improve people’s financial stability and create stronger communities. This commitment can be seen in countless ways throughout the company:
U.S. Bank partners closely with United Ways in communities across the U.S., including:
U.S. Bank teamed up with United Way of Greater Los Angeles to expand financial literacy training, including developing Individual Development Accounts to encourage saving. U.S. Bank provided a two-to-one match on the amount saved.
In Minnesota, U.S. Bank employees assisted with volunteer income tax assistance for lower-income working families, helping more than 10,000 tax payers receive assistance.
In 2010, U.S. Bank provided $38 million in total charitable giving, an increase of 24% over the previous year.
U.S. Bank raised more than $12.5 million for communities in partnership with United Way. United Way is the largest grant recipient and sole partner for U.S. Bank’s employee giving campaign.
The Bank also provided $25.8 million to support programs focused on financial education, job training, affordable housing and more – 75% of the Bank’s overall charitable giving is focused on improving financial stability.
More than 36,000 U.S. Bank employees volunteered in 2010, serving 217,000 people
1,800 U.S. Bank employees shared their financial expertise with 40,000 youth and adults across the country on topics like basic banking and home buying.
900 Bank employees also taught 19,000 students to become lifelong savers for “National Teach Children to Save Day.”
Overall, more than 32,000 volunteer hours were donated to improving financial stability.
United Way Summit Award winners:
Bank of America: Community Impact and Volunteer Engagement
Bank of America has invested more than $450 million with United Way since 1999 as part of its commitment to the economic and social health of communities.
Last year, Bank of America employees volunteered more than one million hours.
Bank of America was the first financial institution to support the United Way Financial Stability Partnership, including $4.5 million in grants over the past few years, plus employee volunteers, providing free tax preparation and filing assistance, resulting in $2 billion in total tax refunds, re-invested into communities.
Microsoft Corporation: Community Impact and Philanthropic Engagement
Microsoft and United Way have multiple education partnerships: participating in the Campaign for the Common Good education launch; partnering to promote Interrobang, an interactive online educational game for kids; and local support such as helping low-income families prepare for kindergarten.
In 2010, Microsoft employees volunteered 72,490 hours toward education out of over 363,000 total hours.
When Microsoft employees volunteer more than 10 hours for an eligible organization, Microsoft provides a $17 matching donation for every volunteer hour.
Procter & Gamble: Community Impact and Volunteer Engagement
P&G has helped support the creation of United Ways in Panama and Honduras, as well as supporting United Ways in Mexico, Chile, Brazil and Canada.
P&G’s Live, Learn and Thrive corporate cause aligns with United Way’s focus on education, income and health, and has benefited more than 210 million children since its inception in 2005.
In 2010, P&G employees participated in more than 145 team volunteer events. More than 5,000 P&Gers volunteered more than 37,000 hours.
Dominion Resources Inc.: Community Impact
In 2010, Dominion granted $24 million and supported United Way programs, such as heating assistance.
Last year, Dominion employees volunteered 150,000 hours.
Dominion’s commitment to education is demonstrated through investments such as the creation of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) endowments for schools.
About the United Way Spirit of America and Summit Awards
The Spirit of America® and Summit Awards program is United Way’s highest national honor recognizing exemplary corporate citizens for outstanding employee and community engagement, and measurable impact in the areas of education, income and health. This prestigious awards program began more than 20 years ago. The Summit Awards honor company excellence in one or more of the following categories of community support. The Spirit of America Award is given to the company who excels in all three areas.
Community Impact—Education-, income- or health-focused partnerships that lead to measurable, sustainable change in communities
Volunteer Engagement—Outstanding companywide commitment to involving employees, families, retirees and other stakeholders in volunteer opportunities related to education, income and health
Philanthropic Engagement—Corporate and employee commitment to communities demonstrated through corporate and foundation contributions, as well as employee and retiree giving
United Way accepting applications for its Gifts in Kind program
The United Way of the Mid-Willamette Valley is proud to be a redistribution partner through Good360—a partnership that allows the United Way to obtain retail goods from local businesses and redistribute to nonprofit agencies in the community. Known to the community as Gifts in Kind, this program provided more than $89,000 in goods to nonprofits during 2010.
In an effort to expand and improve Gifts in Kind, the United Way of the Mid-Willamette Valley will be implementing the following changes:
• Organizations must be a 501(c)(3) health and human service agency offering direct services to clients in Marion, Polk, or Yamhill counties
• Program will run annually from July 1 through June 30
• Following the review and selection process, participating agencies must sign an agreement and submit an annual administration fee of $100
• Distribution will occur once a month
• A maximum of three representatives from each agency will be permitted to attend the distribution
• Special interest items will be available periodically for purchase; posted prices will be significantly lower than the retail cost
• Current Gifts in Kind partners include: Good360, Bed Bath & Beyond—Keizer Station, Home Depot—South Salem, Guess Outlet—Woodburn, Van Heusen Outlet—Lincoln City, Avenue—Keizer Station
Click here to download the application. Applications are due no later than August 15, 2011.
If you have questions about the Gifts in Kind program, contact Kara Rotella, Operations Director at (503) 363-1651, ext. 308 or .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Recapping the 2010 Campaign Celebration
It’s unlikely that a stranger will approach you on the street and offer a gesture of gratitude for your contribution to a nonprofit organization.
The United Way hosts an annual celebration to call attention to the extraordinary generosity of the community, to communicate outcomes that change lives and to highlight stories that inspire us to continue to hope and to share what we have, whether it’s money, time or talent.
On April 28, supporters gathered at Zenith Winery to recognize and applaud the exceptional efforts made on behalf of the United Way’s annual fundraising campaign. Nominees were announced in categories that fell under the umbrella of LIVE UNITED — the ideal that we should take time to consider the people around us every day and live, advocate or volunteer in a way that is personal and unique.
Every company that hosts a United Way campaign, every volunteer who shares his or her time, every advocate who lends his voice, deserves to be celebrated and recognized, especially during times of great need and declining resources.
In the GIVE category, companies are recognized for their creative, energetic and successful work-place campaigns. The Employee Campaign Coordinator award goes to the person within a company who coordinates and organizes the effort.
The VOLUNTEER award goes to a company whose corporate volunteer efforts have significantly influenced a local nonprofit.
The ADVOCATE category calls attention to individuals who lend their voice to speak out on behalf of the United Way and their partner organizations.
The Gerry Frank LIVE UNITED award honors someone who embodies all three values: give, advocate and volunteer. And who engages in these actions on behalf of the entire community.
One of the highlights of the evening was ADVOCATE award recipient Chad O’Neil. Chad is a 17-year-old high school student who was homeless at the age of 11 and spent several tough years on the streets before finding hospitality and refuge with United Way executive director Gayle Caldarazzo.
Chad shyly took the microphone and spoke of cold, wet nights and nowhere to sleep safely, days without food, and the incredible ways his life has changed since finding help through various nonprofit organizations. He accepted his award with grace and tears. He said it will be a reminder of the nearly 900 youths still finding their way on the streets in our communities. He said he will continue to be an advocate because of those kids. And he called all of us to try and help; to do our best and never, ever give up.
Terianne Petzold is marketing and communications director for the United Way of the Mid-Willamette Valley. Reached her at .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Get in the spirit of giving!
12-Day Shopping Event to Benefit the United Way of the Mid-Willamette Valley
SALEM, OR (NOVEMBER 23, 2010) – One Fair World and the United Way of the Mid-Willamette Valley are teaming up for a 12-day shopping event open to the public and spanning the first 12 days of December. One Fair World will donate a percentage of the in-store sales generated during regular business hours, December 1-12, to the United Way.
In addition, there will be a food drive to benefit Marion-Polk Food Share and a book drive seeking to collect 12,000 donated books in 12 days in the Marion, Polk and Yamhill counties. The books will be donated to the Reading for All initiative, which is a part of the Marion County Children and Families Commission.
One Fair World’s purpose in coordinating the event is to support those in need within the local community, while continuing to uphold its primary mission of alleviating global poverty by supporting fair trade artisans and food producers in more than 57 countries world-wide.
The 12-day shopping event will launch on December 1st at 5:00 p.m. with a party in conjunction with Go downtown Salem’s First Wednesday event (Holiday Traditions) and One Fair World’s Holiday Open House, which will be held at the store—located at 474 Court Street in downtown Salem. VIP guests will include Senator Jackie Winters, United Way executive director Gayle Caldarazzo, One Fair World board co-chair Ellen Chambers, Marion-Polk Food Share president Ron Hays, and Children and Families Commission director Alison Kelley.
To learn more about the 12-Days of Christmas or One Fair World, contact Linda Bruce: (503)585-1636 or visit http://www.onefairworld.org To donate new or slightly used books visit http://www.reading4all.com and click on the Holiday Book Drive link for more information and a list of drop-off locations. Donation receptacles for both the food drive and the book drive will be located at the One Fair World store for the duration of the 12-days event.
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One Fair World, a local fair-trade store, has operated in Salem since 2001. Run primarily by volunteers it offers home décor, jewelry, stationery, musical instruments, personal accessories, and food products from the world’s most impoverished nations. Its primary goal is to alleviate global poverty through fair trade practices.
About the United Way of the Mid-Willamette Valley
The United Way of the Mid-Willamette Valley was established in 1937 and remains committed to supporting the Marion, Polk, and Yamhill communities through the allocation of dollars devoted to local agencies and essential services programs. With the help of corporate, employee, and individual donations, the United Way impacts one-in-three lives through programs that focus on urgent human and social services needs: helping children, youth, and adults achieve their potential; promoting financial stability and independence, and improving people’s health and independence. The United Way also oversees the HandsOn Mid-Willamette Valley initiative—a volunteer action center that works to create change in the community through civic engagement. As well as the Gifts in Kind program, Salem Area Transit Bus Pass program and the Yamhill 2-1-1 helpline. For more information about the United Way of the Mid-Willamette Valley call: (503) 363-1651 or visit: unitedwaywmv.org
Both One Fair World and the United Way of the Mid-Willamette Valley are independent 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations and are governed by their own individual volunteer board of directors.
Relief for Haiti
On the evening of January 12, 2010, a major earthquake, 7.0 magnitude, hit Haiti. The loss is astounding and affects the global community.
Local United Ways, including United Way of the Mid-Willamette Valley, are encouraging individuals wanting to help to make a financial donation to the relief efforts. No gift is too small. Every gift and ever person makes a difference. United Way disaster relief is managed through United Way Worldwide.
United Way Worldwide’s Core Crisis Team has been mobilized and is in contact its Caribbean Regional Team to gather more information about the needs on the ground. All funds contributed will be used by United Way Worldwide for long-term recovery efforts.
Donate to UNITED WAY WORLDWIDE DISASTER RELIEF FUND
Checks can also be sent to the following address (with the Haiti Relief Fund reference in either memo line or enclosed correspondence):
United Way Worldwide
P.O. Box 630568
Baltimore, MD 21263-0568
People can also contribute to Haiti’s long-term recovery by texting: Text HAITI to UNITED (864833).
Other organizations in need of financial contributions to assist with Haiti’s relief efforts:
Red Cross:
The Red Cross is not accepting volunteers to travel to Haiti. The best way to support the Red Cross efforts in Haiti is to make a donation to the International Relief Fund online at
http://www.redcross.org or by calling 1-800-Red-Cross. People may also text “HAITI” to “90999” to make a donation of $10, which will be given to the Red Cross to help with relief efforts.
hwww.redcross.org/
Text “HAITI” to 90999 to make a $10 donation
MercyCorps:
MercyCorps is deploying an emergency response team. Check out their blog and more details on the relief effort.
http://www.mercycorps.org/give
Medical Teams International:
Medical Teams International is sending a very experienced team of six people to Haiti on Thursday. The team will be carrying medicines and orthopedic supplies - enough to help 12,000 people for a week. An orthopedic specialty team is scheduled to depart on Sunday.
http://www.medicalteams.org/sf/donate.aspx
FEMA Grant Applications Now Accepted
The Marion and Polk Local Board is now accepting applications for use of emergency food and shelter funds in Marion and Polk Counties. Agencies providing emergency food or shelter services may apply for funds immediately.
Applications are due by 4pm on Wednesday, April 11th 2012.
Under the terms of the grant from the National Board, local agencies chosen to receive funds must: be private voluntary non-profits or units of government, have demonstrated the capability to deliver emergency food and/or shelter programs, have an accounting system, practice nondiscrimination, and if they are a voluntary organization, they must have a voluntary board. Qualifying agencies are urged to apply.
The Local Board, made up of representatives of non-profit agencies, community members, and local government representatives, will make the allocations of funds once funds are available. United Way of the Mid-Willamette Valley will serve as the local administrator of these funds.
Public or private voluntary agencies interested in applying for Emergency Food and Shelter Program funds can download application instructions, forms, and reference materials below.
Instructions:
Download Application Letter 2012 below:
Application Letter 2012.doc
Download Forms A, B, and C below:
FORM A National Board Form.doc
FORM B Local Application Form.doc
FORM C Local Recipient Organization Certification.doc
Download Reference Materials below:
FEMA Reference Manual.pdf
Sample Rent & Utility Documentation Forms.pdf
Sample Eligible and Ineligible Form.doc
For questions or to get more information contact Kate Decarlo at United Way Mid-Willamette Valley (503)363-1651 ext. 312 or by email at .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).
Read the full press release here.
Warming Center Open Tonight
Volunteers with the Willamette Chapter of the American Red Cross are opening a Warming Center in Salem tonight (Wednesday, December 9) to help shelter people from the cold weather. The site for the Warming Center will be at the Veterans of Foreign Wars Hall located at 630 Hood St NE in Salem. Hours of operation will be 9:00 pm to 7:00 am tonight and 7:00 pm to 7:00 am on Thursday and Friday. Weekend hours to be determined based on need.
People who need to stay at the Center will be offered warm beverages and bread each evening and breakfast each morning. Cots and blankets along with basic hygiene items will also be available.
Dogs and cats will be accepted with their owners, however must be crated (provided at shelter) for the duration of their stay, with the exception of exercise breaks outside the Center. Limited food and water for the pets will be provided.
Public calls about the Center may be made to the Red Cross Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 4:30 pm. After hours calls should be made to 503-881-2874. Media inquires should be made to Margaret A. Sanner at 503-508-0688.
National Family Volunteer Day
November 21 - Join families across the nation for a day of investing in your community. This annual day of service, held on the Saturday before Thanksgiving, is designed to demonstrate the power of families who choose to volunteer together to support the communities in which they live and serve. Volunteering as a family provides quality time for busy families, strengthens communication and positively impacts local communities across the nation.
For project ideas email Chelsea Whitlow with HandOn Mid-Willamette Valley at .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
HandsOn community partners are posting opportunities to volunteer on this day. Check often. Act Now!
To learn more about getting involved in your community all year long, visit the HandsOn website at http://www.handsonmwv.org
Get a LIVE UNITED shirt
Show your support for getting involved in your community. Get LIVE UNITED t-shirts to help spread the message about Give. Advocate Volunteer. LIVE UNITED.
Individuals shirts are available for $10 each.A limited quantity of women’s cut shirts are available. Please specify.
United Way funded agencies and official workplace campaign partners ordering six or more shirts at one time, may purchase up to 24 shirts for $8.00 each or purchase 25 or more shirts and pay $6.00 per shirt. Please download the t-shirt order form, fill out appropriate information and fax to the United Way office at (503) 581-2730. You will be contacted when your order is ready for pick-up.
Get the Shirt - LIVE UNITED T-shirt Order Form - shirtorderform.pdf
LIVE UNITED Campaign Kickoff
United Way of the Mid-Willamette Valley kicked off its 2009 Community Campaign on Sept. 17 at the Salem Conference Center. We are grateful to everyone who came in support of United Way’s mission to help people improve their lives.
Close to 400 community members attended the event, which marks the beginning of United Way’s annual fundraising campaign to support community based programs and services throughout Marion, Polk and Yamhill Counts.
The afternoon event also showcased the official launch of LIVE UNITED, which highlighted personal stories from community members who are giving back to our community through volunteerism, advocacy and financial donations.
With the community’s support, we hope to raise $2 million this year. About 300 regional companies and agencies support the annual workplace campaign.
Each year, thousands of people here in tri-county area are helped by United Way-funded programs and initiatives. United, we can ensure our youth succeed, families and individuals are strong, healthy and self-sufficient and people can stay in their homes safely.
Special thanks to those who helped make our kickoff possible and our sponsors:
Gold - Statesman Journal
Silver - A-dec
Bronze - Roth’s, PGE, AmeriTitle
Sept 17 - Kickoff Luncheon
JOIN the MOVEMENT. LIVE UNITED!
2009 Campaign Kickoff
Thursday, September 17, 2009
11:30 am - 1:00 pm
(Seating opens at 11:30 am. Programs begins at noon.)
Salem Conference Center
Willamette Room
200 Commercial St SE
Table Sponsorships Still Available—Call Today
Thank You to Our Supporting Sponsors
Gold - Statesman Journal
Silver - A-dec
Bronze - Roth’s, PGE, AmeriTitle
Gifts In Kind
United Way of the Mid-Willamette Valley recognizes that our local nonprofit organizations always need a wide range of contributions. Through its Gifts In Kind program, United Way of the Mid-Willamette Valley partners with businesses to provide quality products and services to nonprofit agencies. This important program puts needed materials and supplies in the hands of local agencies, meaning they can redirect their dollars from supplies to programs and services.
Last year, more than $46,000 of in kind goods were donated directly to United Way of the Mid-Willamette Valley and distributed to qualified non-profits throughout the region. These are new goods from national business, like Home Depot, Van Heusen and Bed, Bath & Beyond.
Read the Statesman Journal article on the Gifts In Kind program.
Stamp Out Hunger
Join in the fight to end hunger on Saturday, May 9, 2009, by leaving non-perishable food donations in a bag next to your mailbox for your letter carrier. Stamp Out Hunger is the nation’s largest single-day food drive. Last year, over 73 million pounds of food were donated to food banks.
This event was created by the National Association of Letter Carriers, in conjunction with Feeding America, and is sponsored by Campbell Soup Company, the United States Postal Service, United Way of America, G2 Interactive and Valpak.
What you can do to help
1) Place bags with nonperishable* food items next to your mailbox.
2) Your letter carrier will pick them up and deliver them to local food banks.
* Donate things like canned meat and fish, canned soup, juice, pasta, cereal and rice. Please do not include items that have expired or are in glass containers.
Learn More About Stamp Out Hunger
Learn more about the National Association of Letter Carriers Stamp Out Hunger initiative at http://www.stampouthunger.com
National Volunteer Week
It’s National Volunteer Week (April 19-29, 2009) and we wanted to take the opportunity to thank you for your commitment in supporting United Way and the Volunteer & Mentor Center. Together, we’re working to advance the common good by focusing on the building blocks of a good life: a quality education that leads to stable jobs, enough income to support a family through retirement, and good health.
But we can’t do it alone. We need the heads, hands and hearts of people like you to help tackle the problems facing our communities. If you already volunteer with United Way or other community groups through the Volunteer & Mentor Center, we thank you for your time and talent. If you haven’t had a chance to look for volunteer opportunities in our community, please consider doing so now. Visit the Volunteer & Mentor Center and give back today.
By volunteering, you’re creating opportunities for a better life for all. Thank you for opening your heart and lending your muscle.
Learn more at http://www.givebacktoday.org
Child Abuse Prevention Rally
April is Child Abuse Prevention Month. Help us raise awareness and promote prevention at the Child Abuse Prevention Month Rally on April 2 at State Capitol Building from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m. Keynote speakers will discuss elements of prevention, public policy and effects of abuse on children. Service partners from Marion and Polk counties will also be on hand to discuss practical ways we can all prevent abuse. Everyone in our community can make a difference. Please join us!
Child Abuse Prevention Rally
April 2, 2009
12 to 1 p.m.
State Capitol Building
Advocacy - Resource Fair - Free Lunch
Thank you to these outstanding corporate sponsors for helping make Child Abuse Prevention Month possible:
Special thanks to these community supporters for their in-kind contributions:
Hurst Automotive & Welding in Keizer - hot dog lunch
Withnell Motor Company - bus transportation
Walery’s Premium Pizza - soda
Click Here to Get more information on Child Abuse Prevention Month programs and services.
Community Impact Grants Available
United Way of the Mid-Willamette Valley is now accepting grant applications for its 2009-2011 Community Impact funding cycle.
United Way is committed to allocating resources to addressing the most pressing needs of the communities we serve. The Community Impact Grant process allows United Way funds to be awarded to programs that positively impact the issues and create long-term change. Impact funds will be allocated to programs that show results.
Grant proposals for United Way 2009-2011 funding cycle will be accepted February 17 through March 23. All materials must be submitted electronically.
United Way Community Impact Grants
Emergency Food and Shelter Grants
The Grant Process for This Cycle is Closed.
The Salem, Marion & Polk Counties area has received notification of funding from the Emergency Food and Shelter National Board (otherwise known as FEMA). $276,501 has been designated for our area, over $30,000 more than last year.
Applications for emergency food and shelter programs can now be submitted.
Please submit the original application (with the original signed forms) to the Emergency Food & Shelter program by Friday, January 23rd:
ATTN: Emergency Food & Shelter Local Board
c/o United Way of the Mid-Willamette Valley
455 Bliler Street NE
Salem, OR 97301
Also submit an electronic copy of the local application form to .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).
In a separate e-mail, applicants are asked to email: .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) to schedule their presentation time.
If you wish assistance in completing your application or to find answers to general questions, contact Denise Swanson at the United Way at 503-363-1651. The local board will meet after applications are received to make the awards and you will be notified of the decision of the local board. You will be requested to make a brief presentation to Board members before our deliberations on your proposal. Presentations will be made between 8:30 and 11:30 in the morning of Thursday, January 29th.
Below are the materials needed to complete your application. In addition, you can review the Local Recipient Organization Responsibilities and the information about eligible and ineligible program expenses in the booklet you received last year or download it below. This will help you plan your application and internal procedures.
To apply:
(1) Complete the application form provided by the National Emergency Food and Shelter Program - (Local_Application_2009.doc)
(2) Complete the local form intended to provide information to the Local Board in making its decisions. Please complete the form on the computer and submit electronically and one copy in hard copy. (National_Board_Form.doc)
(3) Include a copy of your agency brochure or an informational flier or newspaper article.
(4) Complete the Local Recipient Organization Certification Form only with the original copy of your application (Organization_Certification.doc)
(5) Include one copy of your Board of Directors and your most recent annual audit or Form 990 with your hard copy application
Local Recipient Organization’s Responsibilities (LRO) - Download reference manual (Reference_Manual.pdf)
Non-profits Apply for Bus Passes
The January to June 2009 Grant Application Process is Closed.
United Way of the Mid-Willamette Valley partners with Salem Area Mass Transit District to manage the Cherriots’ bus pass program. The program distributes free bus passes to qualified Mid-Valley non-profits (including schools, churches, agencies) whose clients need transportation support throughout the area.
United Way of the Mid-Willamette Valley is pleased to open the application process for Go Card bus passes for the January to June of 2009 period.
Qualifications for Applying:
- Agency must be a 501(c)3 non-profit serving Marion county residents.
- Agency must be serving individuals in the health and human services field.
- Agency cannot sell the awarded bus passes for any reason
- Agency may not disburse the passes to another non-profit organization or program unless approved by United Way.
- Agency must have at least one representative that is able to pick up the 6 month allotment of passes from the United Way office in January.
- Agency will be required to distribute the passes to those they serve as well as the general public that requests passes from your agency.
- Agency is responsible for tracking the disbursement of the passes from January 2009 through June 2009. Agency will be required to submit data to United Way on a quarterly basis, which will be passed onto Salem Area Mass Transit. Data spreadsheet will be provided to the email address listed on the application.
Download Application: Application_for_Bus_Passes_PDF.pdf
*If awarded passes, your organization must agree to report pass distribution per the documentation that United Way requires. Reporting is due at the end of each quarter, via a spreadsheet sent electronically by e-mail.
Individual Bus Passes
United Way does not distribute bus passes to individuals. Bus passes are issued to non-profit organizations in the area through an application process. The selected organizations are responsible for distributing passes to individuals in need. A list of organizations distributing bus passes will be posted on this website as soon as the bus passes are awarded.
Volunteer & Mentor Center Receives Grant
United Way is proud to announce it has received a grant from the Spirit Mountain Community Fund for its Volunteer & Mentor Center. The $25,000 capacity building grant provides support for the Center to continue expanding its reach and services throughout Marion, Polk and Yamhill counties.
“We are proud to partner with the Volunteer & Mentor Center and United Way to expand volunteerism in our community,” said Shelley Hanson, director Spirit Mountain Community Foundation. The Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde dedicate a portion of the profits from Spirit Mountain Casino to the Spirit Mountain Community Fund, which makes gifts to non-profits in 11 counties throughout Oregon.
Over the past year, the Volunteer & Mentor Center as grown to have more than 100 partner agencies throughout Marion, Polk and Yamhill counties and currently hosts more than 300 unique volunteer opportunities on its http://www.givebacktoday.org website. The Center also works with businesses throughout the region to develop employee volunteer programs and consult on volunteerism in the workplace.
“We extend our thanks to Confederated Tribes of Grande Ronde and the Spirit Mountain Community Fund,” said Mikki Trowbridge, director of the Volunteer & Mentor Center. “Thanks to their support the Center will be able to increase its capacity to recruit, train and mentor volunteers who can then work with non-profits and civic organizations that are helping people change their lives.”
If you are interested in volunteering, visit http://www.givebacktoday.org. If your business is interested in starting an employee volunteer program and need assistance in developing your current program, contact the Volunteer & Mentor Center at (503) 363-1651 or e-mail Mikki Trowbridge, director, at .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address). The Volunteer & Mentor Center is a program of the United Way of the Mid-Willamette Valley.
Company Spotlight
Community partners make a difference. United Way recognizes these amazing businesses who are committed to giving back to our community. Meet the great companies participating in this year’s campaign.
BiMart
For the second year in a row, BiMart in Newberg received corporate recognition as the top charitable giving location within the BiMart chain due to 100% of their employees donating to the campaign. United Way of the Mid-Willamette Valley is proud to honor the employees for their success and their second consecutive year of 100% employee campaign participation of which 89% gave through payroll deduction.
Valmont Communications
Valmont Communications, global engineer and manufacture of communications towers and structures, has a deep commitment to giving back to its community. For the third year in a row, the Salem location has been awarded the Valmont’s top philanthropic location award. Thank you to the employees of Valmont Communications who contributed $12,912 to the 2008 United Way campaign.
Shopko
United Way of the Mid-Willamette Valley recognizes the employees of Shopko on Lancaster Drive for their generosity and commitment to making a difference in our community. Employees at the Salem location more than doubled their United Way campaign pledges from $3,000 in 2007 to more than $7,000 this year, earning corporate recognition as the number one charitable giving location. Congratulations and thank you to the Chris Kelsh, employee campaign coordinator and the entire Shopko Lancaster team.
Tell Us What You Think
This survey is now closed.
Click Here to take survey
Diganos lo que usted piensa
Haga clic aqui para tomar la enuesta
This survey is part of United Way of the Mid-Willamette Valley’s Community Impact Agenda. United Way of the Mid-Willamette Valley serves Marion, Polk and Yamhill counties and has funding responsibility for our tri-county area. We are committed to engaging the community at a local level and to better understanding the health and human services needs of this region.
With this in mind, we need your input and are asking you to participate in this survey to help us better serve our community.
We value your opinions and assure you that your answers will be kept anonymous and confidential. You will not be identified in any way with your responses.
Thank you.
This survey is available in Spanish. Haga clic aqui para tomar la enuesta
Weather Closure
Due to increment weather, the United Way office will be closed, Monday, December 22.
Community Spotlight-BiMart
For the second year in a row, BiMart in Newberg received corporate recognition as the top charitable giving location within the BiMart chain due to 100% of their employees donating to the campaign. United Way of the Mid-Willamette Valley is proud to honor the employees for their success and their second consecutive year of 100% employee campaign participation of which 89% gave through payroll deduction.
Campaign Update - Valmont
Valmont Communications, global engineer and manufacture of communications towers and structures, has a deep commitment to giving back to its community. For the third year in a row, the Salem location has been awarded the Valmont’s top philanthropic location award. Thank you to the employees of Valmont Communications who contributed $12,912 to the 2008 United Way campaign.
Campaign Spotlight - Shopko
United Way of the Mid-Willamette Valley recognizes the employees of Shopko on Lancaster Drive for their generosity and commitment to making a difference in our community. Employees at the Salem location more than doubled their United Way campaign pledges from $3,000 in 2007 to more than $7,000 this year, earning corporate recognition as the number one charitable giving location. Congratulations and thank you to the Chris Kelsh, employee campaign coordinator and the entire Shopko Lancaster team.
Mentor Training 101
Helping out a child with a listening ear and a supportive heart can take just a few minutes, or be a long term commitment. This short professional development workshop focusing on building skills to help you be a great resource to children. This free workshop provides the most current information on successful mentoring programs and strategies. You may decide you want to become a mentor with one of our community partner agencies, or you may add these skills to your toolbox for future reference.
Wednesday
December 10 from 6-9pm
All trainings are held at the United Way of the Mid-Willamette Valley in the Volunteer and Mentor Center located at 455 Bliler Ave. NE, Salem Oregon 97301
For more information or to register: email .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) or call 503-363-1651. Learn more about the Volunteer & Mentor Center at givebacktoday.org
Shop in the City - Dec. 12
Proceeds Benefit United Way
Grab you friends and head to downtown Salem for an evening of shopping and fun, Friday, December 12th. Go Downtown and the merchant’s of downtown Salem are hosting an inaugural “Shop in the City” holiday event.
Event tickets are only $20 and proceeds will benefit the United Way of the Mid-Willamette Valley and will be invested back into our community through the United Way’s Community Care Fund.
Your ticket includes:
• Extra savings and unique discounts at your favorite participating stores
• Complimentary glass of champagne
• Lots of chances to win great prizes at participating merchants
• Personal “swag” bag full of fun items
Tickets are available at participating merchant locations and at the United Way of the Mid-Willamette Valley office. Visit the Go Downtown website for more information http://www.godowntownsalem.org
Learn to Lead - Volunteer
Want to develop your leadership skills and get more people involved in building our community?
Volunteer and Mentor Center projects and teams are managed by Volunteer Leaders. Attend a free training and learn how to develop and manage every aspect of the Center’s projects, from agency con¬tact and volunteer sign-ups to project management and follow-up. As the Center’s strongest link to the community, Volunteer Leaders ensure that every volunteer has a positive experience and that the real needs of regional agency partners are being met.
The next Volunteer Leader training sessions are:
November 10th 6:30-8pm or
November 11th 3:30-5pm
For more information or to register, Khela Singer-Adams, 503-363-1651
All trainings are held at the United Way of the Mid-Willamette Valley located at 455 Bliler Ave. NE, Salem Oregon 97301
Scouting for Food - Dec. 6
Food Donations & Volunteers Needed
Scouting For Food 2008 seeks volunteers to collect 75,000 pounds of food across Marion, Polk, and Yamhill Counties for families in need this holiday season. Volunteer on December 6th in your neighborhood. Find more information at the Volunteer & Mentor Centers website.
Local Boy Scout troops will once again be going door-to-door collecting food in their neighborhoods, but this year they will be joined by volunteers from Marion-Polk Food Share, Women Ending Hunger, the forty United Way Partner Agencies, and the community at-large.
Community members are encouraged to check their kitchen cupboards for non-perishible items that can be shared with someone in need. On December 6, volunteers will canvas local neighborhoods to collect Scouting for Food bags filled with donations and to then deliver the collected food to a specified drop site.
In addition, West Coast Bank will have collection barrels available at all branches for community members to drop off donations until December 13.
