Kim's Corner
Fall is right around the corner. (Cue the smell of pumpkin spice!) This is traditionally a season of change for all of us. The leaves are beginning to transition colors and the air is getting a bit crisper. It’s also the start of a season of abundance. It is traditionally the most common time of the year to begin counting our blessings. And even amidst COVID-19, I take time every single day to find and celebrate gratitude.
I feel blessed to have been at the helm of United Way of Yellowstone County for two months now. It has been such a joy to get to know our dedicated staff and board of directors, coalition members and concerned community citizens – and there are so many more of you to meet! Read more about me and my experience here.
As we all know, COVID-19 brought waves of sickness and loss, amplifying the racial and income inequities throughout our community. 2020 has been unlike anything we could have anticipated. In spite of the continued challenges we are faced with due to this national pandemic, I continue to be impressed at the generosity of the community. Earlier this year, in partnership with Billings Community Foundation, United Way of Yellowstone County established the COVID-19 Community Response Fund allocating $130,000 for community support, food access and assistance for housing. Recovery efforts are just beginning and with you by our side, we are confident this season of abundance will be our time to build an even better Billings!
United Way has a long history of evolving to meet the needs of our community with the greatest impact. During good times and bad times, we rise to support our neighbors. Yellowstone County is where you want to live, work, and play because of the strong sense of community. UWYC is a cornerstone in ensuring our community is healthy and every citizen has an opportunity to prosper.
Our Annual Campaign kicks off this month, raising funds to address social determinants of health, education, and financial stability. We hope that when you are asked to give, you will support our mission with abundance. Happy Fall!
