New Year… New Challenges… New Ideas
With every New Year comes new hope, a focus on planning for the future and strategies for how we will deal with the challenges.
Our local service providers are stressed over the cascade of budget cuts from federal and state governments. They are working diligently to raise resources from other sources so that valuable and very needed services are available to our residents. Some have cut programs and staff because they were unable to fill the gap left by the decrease in funding. Together we are working hard to discover ways to streamline, reduce costs through shared buying and resources, and provide training, mentoring and coaching for those who need or want that extra support. Donors should be proud of the work our local non-profits are doing to make Greater Williamsburg a better place for all.
There are many community planning groups working on a variety of issues such as homelessness, pre and post jail and prison release services, early childhood services, older adult care and services and much more. These volunteers and staff care about our residents and how we will provide for them in challenging times.
If you have made charitable contributions this year, Thank You! If you are still thinking about it, please consider making a contribution to something you care about. If you do not have a favorite cause or agency make a contribution to United Way where your gift will be combined with many others to make great impact in many areas of service – birth to death.
I am proud to be working in this community with so many committed and talented people. Thank you for that opportunity!
Sharon Gibson-Ellis, Executive Director
