Letter from Executive Director Jamie Toennies

First, I want to personally thank our caring and generous community for its longstanding support of United Way. Since 1944, United Way has been a part of the puzzle that has helped to make life better for local residents throughout the Black Hills. Because of your support, the number of people served by United Way funded programs surpassed last year.
The variety and scope of services provided is impressive: from basic life essentials like food and shelter to meet the immediate needs of those struggling all the way to education programs designed to help the future citizens of our community. We’ll be able to continue to meet those needs in the coming year thanks once again to the generosity offered by our community during the fall campaign. When all was said and done, donors joined the cause helping us raise $2,330,687 to help those in need in our community.
 
Not only did you offer financial support, you also gave your time. From the 243 campaign volunteers organizing fundraising efforts in our community, to the 1,108 volunteers who gave their time during Day of Caring, finally to the 84 board members who carefully vet and ensure accountability for your dollars when they are granted to non-profit agencies.
 
This is an amazing gift from our generous community.
 
On behalf of United Way’s volunteers and staff, thank you. If you didn’t have a chance to get involved with United Way last year, we invite you to join us to make a difference this year. Visit unitedwayblackhills.org for more information on how you can help your community through United Way.
 
Jamie Toennies
Executive Director
 
THANK YOU FOR LIVING UNITED