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Each year, United Ways across the country remember and honor those who lost their lives and were forever impacted by the events that took place on September 11, 2001. For United Ways, remembering this day also means remembering what happened when people came together.
This Friday, on the 25th anniversary of September 11, 2001, United Way of Monongalia and Preston Counties will participate in the "Never Forget" gathering hosted by Valley Healthcare at the Morgantown Readiness Center from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. We will be one of more than 90 service organizations present to support community causes for veterans and first responders.
In the face of tragedy 25 years ago, neighbors helped neighbors. Strangers reached out to one another. Volunteers stepped forward. People gave what they could, including their time, talent, resources, and compassion. Communities discovered that even in the darkest moments, there was something each of us could do to help. That lesson remains just as important today.
Our challenges may look different today, but the need for people to come together has not changed. Families are working to make ends meet. Children need opportunities to succeed. Neighbors need access to food, housing, and other essential resources. And throughout our communities, there are people who need someone to stand beside them.
That is where the work of United Way begins. As we remember Sept. 11, we are reminded that community is not simply a place where we live. It is something we build together. And that brings us to the kickoff of our annual campaign.
For this year's campaign, United Way is carrying that spirit of togetherness into its work. We understand that no challenge, big or small, can be solved alone. We all must work together and harness The Power of Us.
This year's theme is a reminder that change does not happen because of one person. It happens when we all come together to create meaningful change. Whether you are an individual, a business, a nonprofit, a volunteer, or a community leader, we all have a role to play in investing in our community.
United Way is committed to bringing people together to expand youth opportunities, improve community health, strengthen financial stability, and foster community resiliency. Do your part in your community. Volunteer. Donate. Partner. Engage. Support the 30 programs at 26 agencies that are working every day to make a difference in our community.
When we all come together, we have the power to make a difference. That is The Power of Us. Donations can be made online at www.unitedwaympc.org/give or by texting Pledge2027 to 41444. In addition to giving financially, supporters are encouraged to volunteer, advocate, and spread the word about the importance of coming together to support our community.
Rachel Everwine is the Engagement Manager at United Way of Monongalia and Preston Counties. She can be reached at rachel@unitedwaympc.org.
Savanna Draper is the Community Impact Director at United Way of Monongalia and Preston Counties. She can be reached at savanna@unitedwaympc.org.