Testimonies to UWRA's VALUE ADD
Based on UWRA’s work as we look to the future …….will more UW staff plan effectively for their retirement years, will more UWs have viable planned giving programs, will more UW staff have access to an qualified mentor, will more UW retirees stay connected with each other and the UW mission, will UWs know where to find experienced interim assistance, will more of our children have access to books to help them achieve their potential, will the history of UW be preserved for future generations of service leaders, will more UWs be linked with needed interim assistance, will more people get the help they need and communities be made stronger…..We believe the answer is Yes
Testimonies….
Preservation of History….Global Vision and Local Action published in 2009 reports the history of United Way International from its incorporation in 1974 through its staff integration with United Way Worldwide in 2009. Grassroots Initiatives Shape an International Movement (2004), documents over 200 local innovations that have come to define local United Way programs since 1876.
In my search for a history of the United Way, I was ecstatic to find” Grassroots Initiatives” by Dick and Mary Lu Aft as this valuable resource not only afforded me with a comprehensive account of the beginnings of the United Way of America, but also provided a rich context for the current transformation of our 1,300 local United Ways into instruments of “community impact” that will assuredly” improve lives by mobilizing the caring power of communities”. I was so captured by the useful information found within this book and inspired by the passion it stirred within me as I turned the pages, that I ordered 20 copies for our Board of Directors and key supporters. I wrapped a ribbon around each copy and, as I handed them out, I remarked that this gift does come with one “string attached”, YOU HAVETO READ IT! As I rarely endorse books (who am I anyway?), I hope you will consider reading this one, and, if you find that it helps to kindle the fire in your heart for United Way’s mission, and if you discover that it gives you tools to achieve that mission, then by all means recommend to your friends and colleagues.”
Dennis P. Carman, MSW, MAPA, President & CEO, United Way of Greater Plymouth County
History Books for sale through the United Way Store (all proceeds go to United Way Endowment Funds):
Please click to order: Grassroots Initiatives Shape an International Movement(the history of United Way since 1876)
Please click to order: Global Vision and Local Action (the history of United Way International)
Endowment and Planned Giving (EPG) ….. The UWRA EPG program works to increase the number of United Way organizations with viable planned giving programs. Significant benefits to the United Way include: 1) access to years of experience within United Way that each UWRA volunteer brings to the table; 2) considerable cost savings gained using a program facilitated by experienced volunteers versus an outside consulting firm and 3) increased community awareness of the local United Way and their community impact agenda. One recipient of UWRA EPG services:
With just a teeny bit of effort…NO PERSONAL CALLS YET…we have received $600,000 in letter of intent promises PLUS, our $300,000 CASH bequest. That is more than our annual campaign. Put my picture on the milk carton…I am the poster child for the retiree program and UWW planned giving guide. Julie Capaldi, CEO United Way of Pickens County (Metro VI)
Mentoring…. The online coaching system, launched in 2009, is a combined effort of the United Way Worldwide Center for Community Leadership Talent Management Team, United Way Retirees Association and the Diversity and Inclusion Team. Mentor Scout is a FREE online web tool that can expand your network and introduce you to individuals who can assist you in your career growth and help you with feedback and advice on sharpening your skills. Just a few of the comments from a first year evaluation study are below.
The program provides an opportunity for shared growth and development of the mentee and mentor. I value my participation in the program. It has been a gift. Thank you!
I am 6months into my current position and find that reaching out to those experienced or retired from United Way extremely helpful. It's a great opportunity to ask questions without fear and ask for advice from someone who’s already walked in your shoes.
I have really enjoyed learning from my mentor, and having a person who can provide an unbiased opinion in regards to my work situation. She has opened my eyes to a network of people and resources in the UWW system.
To learn more about Mentor Scout:
Interim Assistance…. For local UWs in need of interim assistance the UWRA listserv (current and retired UW staff) is a valuable resource to reach individuals who can step in and help on an interim basis without a learning curve.
What do you do when your only fund development professional does not survive your Pacesetter Kick off? United Way Retirees to the rescue!! Thanks to Tricia Smith’s rapid response to my desperate email, retired CEO Dale Gray graciously moved to The Woodlands, TX from Arizona on a temporary basis to guide our Metro 3 organization through the 2009 campaign. Dale’s knowledge and experiences brought the right level of expertise to our LUW when we needed it the most. He is helping us restructure our annual campaign to develop the depth and institute the best practices we have needed. The best part has been having someone right here who can share his perspective, wisdom and calming influence on all aspects of our operations. Thanks, Dale and UWRA! Julie Martineau, CEO Montgomery County United Way
When Julie Martineau, President of the Montgomery County United Way, asked UWRA for help because she had lost her Director of Development, I was available to provide leadership to their $3.7 million campaign. Julie is an excellent Executive and it has been an enjoyable experience working with her and her key volunteers. We are on target to make the goal. I will be leaving The Woodlands, TX towards the end of March after seven months of an enriched experience. Dale Gray, UWRA Member
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