Hope Still Radiates in a Recession!

I had the honor of speaking at a United Way kickoff breakfast earlier this week. I was asked to “inspire the crowd”. I opened up the 70-minute event, of which I took up 30 minutes, and then sat down feeling pretty good. However, it was the second half of the event that was truly inspiring.

No less than eight companies were asked to come up to the front to present their 2008 donations (which were raised by their employees). These companies are called “pacesetters” and together raised over $300,000! Amazing! It wasn’t just from people contributing a little from their paychecks each month, but it also included stories of employee fundraising events like car washes and bake sales.

What’s better yet, the donations raised exceeded the previous year’s figures! During a time of massive layoffs, these companies raised even more money! That is what’s truly inspiring. The United Way really does touch so many people’s lives. I was honored to be a part of this event.

It really goes to show that great things can happen when people LIVE UNITED!

Joe Kiedinger

ACTION PLAN: It’s important to support a cause. Do you have one? Please, if you currently do not have a cause… find one.