In the St. Louis region, we have many reasons to feel proud of and optimistic about the future. This is America’s heartland, where our communities and neighborhoods share a sense of history and stability. We are home to social service organizations that help care for our citizens, lively cultural and performing arts organizations that enhance our quality of life, and a winning spirit of vitality with our sports teams.
Above all, the St. Louis region has a generous heart. Young professionals have volunteered more than 1,500 hours already this year through United Way’s GenNext group, up from 1,100 hours total last year. St. Louis was recently ranked 10th in the nation in volunteering; through United Way, more than 1,200 people volunteered this past 9/11 to honor the lives of our servicemen and women.
As chair of the 2010 United Way campaign, I have the opportunity to visit some of the agencies that help others and to speak with a variety of people in our community. I’m inspired by their generosity. They display a spirit of optimism and determination to continue this outpouring of concern and help. The strength of this concern for others reflects another reason why this is, indeed, the heartland.
Together, we are determined to make our community stronger and even more vibrant. We recognize the potential to grow and prosper here, and we are committed to helping one another. I know of no better way to do this than through United Way. Our annual campaign is now under way. Please join me and so many others at HelpingPeople.org to continue this tradition of help and hope.
Jim Weddle
2010 United Way Campaign Chair