United Way of Marathon County

April 30, 2018

Your Gift Makes a Difference

Jessica and Tony were in the midst of a divorce and a restraining order was put in place against Tony after he had assaulted Jessica during an exchange of their son. The court ordered that Tony be required to visit with his child at The Visitation Center, a United Way funded program of Children's Hospital Community Services. Tony was very angry that he was unable to have "normal" weekends with his son, but the staff at The Visitation Center helped him focus on what was best for his son and also learn to be the kind of father that he wanted to be. Tony attended the SAFE Program at Peaceful Solutions Counseling, another United Way funded program, where he learned to identify his controlling and abusive behaviors, and how to handle feelings, thoughts and conflicts in a healthy way.

Today Tony has regular weekend visits with his son and is rebuilding their relationship. While Jessica and Tony did divorce, they are focused on being the best parents they can be. They both want their son to grow up in an atmosphere that is free from abusive behaviors.

Don't Miss Power of the Purse

Get Organized for Summer

Summer is right around the corner. If you have children, chances are you are looking for safe, fun activities to keep them busy this summer. United Way's Partnership for Youth Coalition is here to help. On May 12, from 9:00 a.m. to noon, the first annual Summer Fun Fair will be held at the Boys & Girls Club, 1710 N. Second Street, Wausau. This is your opportunity to sign your kids' up for all kinds of summer activities. Questions? Contact Deanna at United Way. Click here to view poster.

The New Retirement!

If you want to make the rest of your life—the best of your life, this is the program for you! While most retirement planning focuses on the financial aspect, this program is about getting your “non-financial portfolio” in order. Join United Way RSVP on Thursday, May 10, from 9:30 –11:30 a.m. at United Way of Marathon County for this unique program. Learn what the leading authorities have to say about making a successful transition from work to retirement and what it takes to have a meaningful and enjoyable retirement. The program is presented by Tony Omernik (certified Retirement Options Coach) and Carol Pasnecker. Register by calling 715-298-5721 or by emailing Tony.

Getting Books into the Hands of Kids

One of the biggest barriers to reading for young children in low-income homes is the lack of books of their own. United Way Ready to Read is changing that. Last year, volunteers built 5 bookcases which were placed in community locations and filled with gently used books. In spring 2017, fourteen companies held book drives and dozens of individuals dropped off books at our office to help us blow away our goal of 1000 new or gently used children's books to fill our new. We collected over 2500 books during the book drive, and an additional 2000 books came in through the end of the year, allowing us to keep the bookshelves well stocked. And, the books continue to fly off the shelves.

From now until June 14, we would like your help to collect 5000 books to stock the shelves for the next year. Please consider hosting a book drive in your company to help us reach our goal. It’s an easy and fun way to help fill the shelves. Use the Book Drive posters to promote your internal book drive (Word and PDF). Books can be dropped off at United Way by June 14 or call our office by June 8 to schedule pick up the following week (715) 848-2927. Individuals can also drop off books at the United Way office between now and June 14.

Week of Action Activities June 18-21

One of United Way's core missions is to promote and encourage volunteerism. Volunteers are critical to the work of all non-profits and benefit the community in so many ways. From June 18-21, United Way will be providing multiple opportunities for you and/or your entire work team to get involved in volunteer projects. Details are being finalized this week and further information will be available very soon. Watch your email for the complete schedule and sign up early.

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