I’m new to United Way of Norman – new enough that the 2009 campaign was my first. Wow, what an experience! Being on the Success By 6 side, I have been slightly on the edge of the Campaign trenches looking in. But close enough to feel the energy and emotion that is poured into the fundraising efforts by assigned staff and the amazing volunteers that are committed to the mission of United Way of Norman.
I’m not an easy sell…some might even accuse me of being a little jaded. But I’ve got to say I’ve been amazed and a little taken aback by the heart of Campaign – the heart of the folks committed to the success of Campaign.
Sure these 146 days have been about money and goals. Sure they’ve been about successful community reports and upward moving goal-o-meters. Of course they’ve been about the hopes of a victory celebration and kudos to those who’ve worked tirelessly to make it all happen. I won’t lie; these are the warm fuzzies we love.
But these 146 days of Campaign, and any momentary warm fuzzies felt, are only part of the year at United Way of Norman; the rest of the year is about service, hope, help, relief and faith. These days of fundraising are solely a means to the end – and the end is the community we serve. When it comes down to it, the heart of everyone involved is to see needs met – all of them. The only reason any of us get excited about money and goals is because we understand that more of our elderly citizens will be kept warm this winter. The only reason we’re thrilled about giving successful community reports and eager to put the red tape of success on the goal-o-meters is because we understand we’ll be able to help keep more families in their homes with food on their tables when jobs are lost. And when we celebrate because of the generosity of our community and we give high fives to those who helped us, it’s because we understand that more of our children will have socks and shoes on their feet, and their moms will rest easier knowing there’s help when they feel helpless.
My first United Way of Norman Campaign has been truly amazing. I’m now looking forward to the very best part…giving the money away! That is, after all, what it’s about. If you’ve given “your fair share”, thanks. If you haven’t – would you? We could all use a warm fuzzy or two.
*Post written by Leisa Speegle, Success By 6 Director
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