Volunteer

Campaign Champions and Cabinet

The United Way Annual Campaign volunteers, which we call Campaign Champions, use their efforts to network with other professionals and meet with employee groups to give a voice to the work being done to make great things happen in Adams County and beyond.

Money raised in the United Way's annual campaign is immediately invested in programs that address community needs in education, income and health. Non-profits apply to become a United Way partner organization. Once they are approved, the organization applies for funding for program(s) within their agency. Resource Investment teams evaluate the programs and make funding recommendations to the Board of Directors. The Board of Directors approves the final dollar amount awarded to each program.

Throughout the course of this six-week process, volunteers donate more than 500 hours to ensure campaign dollars are invested wisely in successful programs that improve the quality of life in Adams County. Volunteers are divided into three teams and evaluate programs within three categories: Health, Education, and Financial Stability.

Those interested in volunteering may call the United Way office at 217-222-5020 to inquire.

The Promotions Committee is at the heart of United Way's social events calendar. Ranging from Restaurant Days to the Annual Meeting, this committee is responsible for the planning, execution and marketing of United Way special events. Members work year-round to ensure the special events calendar runs smoothly and that there are opportunities for everyone to get involved with United Way.

 In addition to events, Promotions Committee members are responsible for developing creative ways to communicate with United Way donors, volunteers and the public how United Way generates dollars for our partner organizations and the exciting things accomplished with the funds you donate.

Good News of Christmas ...

• We each have 8,760 hours in a year, roughly 720 hours in a month, 168 hours in a week, 24 hours in a day. How many can you spare to make someone's day? It's not as hard as you think. With a little advance planning, you can work volunteering into an already busy schedule.
• Combine family time with volunteering. Volunteering is a great way to spend quality time with your family while passing your values to your children.
• Many companies give their employees time to volunteer during the workday. Ask about volunteer policies at your job.
• Make a specific volunteer opportunity a weekly, monthly, or even yearly tradition so it is just as important as a birthday or holiday.
• Join a social group that emphasizes volunteering. You'll meet new people, network and give back to the "community" all at the same time.
• Make a list of volunteer activities that do not require a commitment and keep them handy. When you have a little free time, you can spontaneously decide to participate.
• Seize unexpected free time like snow days as opportunities to volunteer. Shovel sidewalks of elderly neighbors or make fleece blankets for shelters.
• Use spring cleaning as an opportunity to donate clothing and household items in good condition to charity.
• Plan to volunteer on holidays when there is no school or work.
• Consider taking a volunteer vacation. The next time you take a few days to travel, think about using a portion of your time off to help those in need.
• The most recent data about volunteering in America suggests that the most likely person to volunteer is a woman with a job and kids - likely the busiest people in this country! People make time to volunteer when they care about an issue.
• Figure out what moves you and you'll find the time.