As chair of the United Way of Northwest Georgia’s Board of Directors and a member of the Campaign Cabinet, I have seen firsthand how our community’s generosity transforms lives. This spirit of giving truly embodies our core values of service and community support.
Living and working in such a strong, resilient community fills me with gratitude. To everyone who gives, advocates and volunteers, thank you for ensuring the United Way of Northwest Georgia can assist our neighbors, co-workers and friends. It is an honor to serve as the 2024 chairman of the Board of Directors.
United Way is more than an organization, it is a beacon of hope and support for countless individuals and families. We are on a mission to make a real, lasting difference in our community. In a world that often feels divided, uniting our community has never been more crucial. Many have faced unimaginable hardships, and some are still finding their footing. But together, we can create a brighter future for all.
The United Way of Northwest Georgia gives us the opportunity to stand as one community, supporting each other and working toward a common goal. We tackle the toughest problems with thoughtful, local solutions. The United Way makes it easy for you to take meaningful action that truly makes a difference. Your financial support is vital for funding life-changing programs that advance health, education and local resilience. Donations, both large and small, impact nearly 65,000 people in our community. I hope you will join me in improving lives in Northwest Georgia with the United Way. United, we can make a difference.
Meet Juanita: A United Way impact story
Your gift helps us continue creating safe and stable homes for those in our community. Juanita’s mobility deteriorated over the years, making her beloved home an obstacle course. Living in a house over 60 years old, her bathroom was especially hazardous. It featured an old clawfoot tub and a small, makeshift shower, rendering it nearly impossible for her to use. The small bathroom could not accommodate her needs, and each day became a struggle against the limitations of her environment.
Recognizing the urgent need for a safer living space, United Way Community Partner Rebuilding Hope embarked on a mission to transform Juanita’s bathroom. The team enlarged the bathroom to accommodate a handicapped-accessible shower. The old plumbing, long past its prime, needed a complete overhaul, and the rotted floors required extensive repair. This was not just a renovation but a necessary intervention to restore Juanita’s independence.
The project was a resounding success. Juanita’s new bathroom is now a safe haven, with ample space and accessible amenities that allow her to shower without fear. The transformation improved her quality of life and restored her sense of independence. Stories like Juanita’s highlight the profound impact of our work, and with your generous support we can continue to bring safety, comfort and stability to those in need. Your gift can help us reach more individuals like Juanita, ensuring we can help create safe and stable homes.
No one ever expects to need these services, but life can bring unexpected challenges. When it does, the United Way of Northwest Georgia is here to help. As you reflect on what you are thankful for this season, consider paying it forward with a gift to the United Way. You never know when you or your neighbor might need a helping hand. Our campaign goal this year is $4.155 million, and we need your help to reach it. Until every need is met, our work is not done.
Please consider investing in the United Way. Let’s connect those in need with those who can help. Together, we can create a thriving community for everyone. You can make a gift online at ourunitedway.org/give or mail a check to United Way, P.O. Box 566, Dalton, GA 30722. United, we are a force for good, creating a brighter tomorrow for our community. Thank you for your support — let’s make this campaign a resounding success.
United, we do more!
Julian Dossche is the 2024 United Way of Northwest Georgia chairman of the Board of Directors. The mission of the United Way is “Improving Lives. Inspiring Donors. Uniting Community.”