LIVE UNITED Y’All!

In some of his first acts as president, Barack Obama has set the groundwork for a different type of government – one that is more transparent, more open and most importantly, more accountable to the American people.  So, what exactly does this mean for us?  And more importantly, are we willing to do our part?

A more transparent and accountable government will not come without some commitment on our part.  Whether you’re a democrat, republican or independent, this significant change in our country’s leadership brings about exciting opportunities for all of us to re-engage with our government.  In “Change has come to WhiteHouse.gov”  Macon Phillips, Director of New Media for the White House, outlines participation as a priority for new media efforts.  That means they want every-day Americans like you and me to express our opinions and views on upcoming legislation.  Talk about getting your voice heard!  We have the opportunity to connect to our government and educate ourselves about important issues in a way that we never have before.  I’m excited and motivated by the concept of a more open and transparent government!  Are you?

But why stop there?  You can take part in shaping government at the state level as well.  There’s a great tool called bill watch where you can find information about new bills being introduced at the state level.  You can search bills by date, topic and sponsor.  And if you find one you take a particular interest in, you can track its progress.  The Kentucky Legislature reconvenes for Part II of its 2009 regular session on February 3^rd.  If there’s legislation you’d like your elected officials to consider, allow your voice to be heard!  Or join Metro United Way for Children’s Advocacy Day at the Capitol on February 12^th.   More information regarding children’s issues can be found here. 

Whatever issue you’re passionate about, there is no better time to take action than now!  I challenge us all (myself included) to take a more active role in our government!  If we don’t, who will?  What do you think? Are you ready to accept the responsibility of a ”government of the people, by the people, for the people”? (Abraham Lincoln, Gettysburg Address)   

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Barack Obama is not the only one being inaugurated on January 20th. We all are.

And that’s not just because Obama has promised to make a call to service “a central cause” of his presidency. It’s because this moment in history demands we stop waiting on others — especially other people who are living in Washington D.C. — to solve the problems and right the wrongs of our times. Now, more than ever, we must mine the most underutilized resource available to us: ourselves.   

Excerpt from Arianna Huffington blog 1/8/09

I think this is a great way to look at what is happening in America, and how we can best address challenges ahead. America is at her best when individuals step forward and unite in common cause. The roots of the United Way movement are steeped in this very notion. Imagine in 1887, a Denver priest, two ministers and a rabbi who recognized the need for working together in order to address their city’s welfare problems.  Rev. Myron Reed, Msgr. William O’Ryan, Dean Martyn Hart and Rabbi William Friedman put their heads together ( a.k.a. living united today) and created a volunteer driven organization to collect funds, coordinate relief services, refer clients to cooperating agencies, and make emergency assistance grants. It’s been 118 years and United Way today is the largest private charity and remains focused on mobilizing the caring power of communities and making a lasting difference in people’s lives.

I work on the Resource Development team in a hallway where you can find loads of energy, optimism and a diverse group of men and women who will ring a bell (a cow bell), offer up frequent woo-hoo’s and regularly share in celebrating with one another. Our rallying cry of late has been to turn it up and we are collectively focused on seeing the close of the 2008 annual campaign and to reach the goal.  In doing so, we will be poised to meet ever increasing local needs, create lasting change and to strengthen our relationships with YOU – our donors, friends, corporate partners, agency network & volunteers. Together, we really can face challenges ahead, take care of those in need and create a better tomorrow. 

Are you ready? I am.

My short oath: If it is to be it is up to me.

If you were taking office, what exactly would your personal oath say to our community? Would you pledge to get more involved? Do you want to be the change that you would like to see? Is now the time to donate an hour or two a week or a month?  Could you mentor a child who needs a positive role model, visit with an elderly person, clean out a closet & take clothes to a shelter, tutor someone learning financial planning skills, provide transportation, help someone seek an education, or make a financial donation in honor or memory of someone? Give, Advocate, and Volunteer are ways that you can join with us at Metro United Way.    

Kelly Hutchinson, Donor Relationship Manager

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