Happy Holidays, Katie,
Here we are at the end of 2023 already – it felt like the fastest year yet for me – with no signs that I should expect it to slow down. I am wrapping up one of my latest projects, data collection on our program metrics, including how many folks MCUM has served this year and what marked improvements we have helped them to make along their paths to prosperity. I will look forward to sharing that with you in our upcoming annual report on 2023. Until then, here are some of this month’s outcomes I am thrilled to share with you:
Our annual Polar Express event was, as usual, a hit! We hosted over 50 kids and their families for an adventure (with Golden Tickets, of course!) through various activities including face painting, cookie decorating, ornament making, a hot chocolate bar, and, of course, a visit to see “Santa.” My husband, Nathan, was voluntold to play Santa this year and I have to tell you, he really knocked it out of the park! My youngest, Cobie, is too young to comprehend Santa, and I feared my oldest would quite literally think her father IS Santa if she saw him, so I was a little worried about potential fallout from this arrangement. We had a few close calls when Cobie emerged from the Puffin classroom and caught a glimpse of her dad dressed as Santa, and when Hazel’s buddy immediately accused Santa of being Hazel’s dad. Fortunately, we were able to recover quickly, and my children are none the wiser! Hah!
In line with the holidays, I want to give some special thank you's this month. Thank you to our supporters making financial contributions through our Prosperity Fund annual campaign (it is not too late to give – mcum.org/donate). Thank you to FORVIS for purchasing coats to bundle up our Compass kids this winter. Thank you to our holiday sponsors, food basket makers, and food drive hosts for helping us pull together an incredible lineup of holiday joy for the families MCUM serves.
Our biggest need to complete the year is financial contributions to our end of year campaign. With your help, $130,000 collected will help us more intentionally lift families out of poverty and into prosperity, will allow us to pay our team of unmatched, incredible employees not only a livable wage but a competitive one, and will ensure that MCUM is supplied with essentials. Your support stays local and is always intentionally invested into improving the lives we touch!
Wishing you and yours the absolute best this year!
Katie Broadfoot, MPA
Executive Director
Monroe County United Ministries
kbroadfoot@mcum.org
812-339-3429 ext.11
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