I’m very honored that the United Way Board of Directors hired me to continue the legacy of giving in Leavenworth County. I am learning a lot, and this is where it all comes together in our community and county. The current Executive Board of Directors is comprised of: Chair, Sunshine Petrone (City of Lansing); vice-chair, Maura Fulk (Armed Forces Insurance); last year’s campaign chair, Blake Waters (First State Bank of Tonganoxie); treasurer, Karen Logan (City of Leavenworth); and immediate past chair, Jilinda White (First State Bank). The full board is currently comprised of 16 members.

The United Way of Leavenworth County board membership is a group of dedicated businesses and professional leaders. They want to see stability and economic growth in Tonganoxie, Leavenworth, Basehor and other areas of our county. A few weeks ago, I participated with committee members in “agency reviews”, where we interview and listen to non-profit organizations who receive general funds from the United Way. These funds are in addition to funds that donors designate directly to the agency.

I heard the agencies talk about helping individuals achieve financial stability through budgeting classes and counseling, early education programs to prepare kids for success in schools, youth programs and after school programs that work with youth to prepare them for success in life and work. In upcoming articles, I will highlight specifics agencies and their stories about how families have thrived and benefitted our community. Many organizations have taken deep cuts, especially in the past couple of years. Some have closed programs, and several reduced their workforces. All the while, the need has been growing.

The major campaign this year occurs from September 9 to October 31, 2011. United Way also has other fund-raising events throughout the year. Upcoming, June 12-13 is a community barbecue and Hackers Classic Golf Tournament, sponsored by Armed Forces Insurance, Commerce Bank, and Kaaz-Lexeco.

I am amazed at how businesses and service programs work together to strengthen and build our community and economy, especially those affecting and encouraging youth to thrive. What better investment in our future.

For more information, or to help, please call (913) 682-2592 or e-mail unitedwaylvco@gmail.com. The United Way’s county website is www.unitedwaylvco.org.

— Nancy Bauder is executive director for the United Way of Leavenworth County