Dear Neighbor,

We ask for your support during one of the toughest times our nation and our local community has ever faced. We have all – whether it is ourselves, our loved ones, our colleagues or neighbors – felt the effect of these difficult and challenging times. Unfortunately, this is the time when giving decreases, while demand for help, support and resources grows to an all time high. That is why now – more than ever – we need to step up and help each other. We need to stand together and show what it truly means to LIVE UNITED.

We are asking for more when some folks don’t have abundance or much to spare. If this is your case, please consider giving what you can. Every little bit really does help to make a difference. If you are fortunate enough to be in a position to support others, please consider giving more this year so that our local, critical programs do not have to close their doors.

The DuPage area is facing tremendous need. The number of low income residents in DuPage is steadily increasing. We now have 144,422 people living at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Level (which is $42,400 for a family of four). That is why United Way works with individuals and families in the area of financial stability.

Parents with limited incomes are unable to afford the educational supports that all children need in order to be prepared cognitively, academically and socially to grow into self-sufficient adults. That is why United Way works with individuals and families in the area of children and youth.

A family without health insurance is often overwhelmed to the point of bankruptcy by the financial burdens of a serious illness. That is why United Way works with individuals and families in the area of health and wellness.

All of these problems are rarely isolated issues. Right now, in our own community, people are overwhelmed by the complexity of all of these issues. We can provide the leadership and resources it takes to make lasting change so that people can improve their lives, advancing the common good.

Only you can make the decision to stretch farther than ever to help our community. We are confident that individuals in the DuPage area will stand together to help. We are a strong community that can work together to give others a chance at independence.

Please help us continue to meet the pressing needs of our community. Supporting United Way is truly the most effective way to improve lives and strengthen our community–and I hope you will play a part by mailing your donation to:

United Way of the DuPage Area
P.O. Box 5317
Oak Brook, IL 60522.

Sincerely,

Walker Geyer
Managing Director Capital Markets
Paramount Lodging Advisors
2008 UWDA Board President

P.S. During this holiday time you can give the greatest gift of all by helping someone in need who is counting on your generosity.