Editor:

The United Way of Baldwin County recently kicked off its 2010 annual campaign. More than 500 members of the community attended a luncheon at the Daphne Civic Center featuring Gov. Bob Riley as guest speaker. Gov. Riley spoke of our county’s generous spirit in challenging times and of our ability to make a difference far beyond the boundaries of our community. He urged the audience to step up and meet the $1.1 million goal because “ultimately, we’re here for one reason — to help others.”

Often, individuals want to know where the money given to the United Way of Baldwin County goes. The answer is to 44 nonprofit partner agencies that use it for basic needs such as helping struggling parents buy groceries for their families, providing uninsured children with medical care and keeping at-risk teens in school. As Governor Riley pointed out, “United Way exists collectively to do what we can’t do individually.”

I would like to thank the city of Daphne and Baldwin EMC for their generosity in sponsoring our kick off luncheon with the governor. It was truly an inspiring afternoon and a wonderful example of the spirit of cooperation that exists in Baldwin County today.

Executive Director

United Way of Baldwin County