Recently a United Way donor stepped up with a gift of $100,000 to be used to match other personal donations of $1000 or more. What is even more remarkable about this person’s generosity is that they have decided to remain anonymous. Donor anonymity is something that is taken pretty seriously around here, so I really don’t know anything about this person, their financial situation, their connection to United Way or their motivation for giving. All I know is that this is someone who recognized that times are tough in our community and decided to do something about it.

Common knowledge dictates that in recessions and periods of high
unemployment people have less capacity to donate while needs in the community rise. This is the definitely the case, especially on the community need side of things. The majority of the agencies that United Way works with have noted a significant increase in demand for services over the last year. What saves us in these times is a heightened sense of awareness and generosity. Perhaps the bad news that dominates the headlines reminds people of how vulnerable we are to things that are seemingly out of our control.

If there is any good that comes from the current challenges that confront our community, it’s that people become more generous, more caring, and more aware of the needs of others. Our ability to reach out and pull everyone up is truly what defines a community. To our anonymous donor and to everyone who does a little extra this year, thank you – you’re the upside of being down.

Submitted by:
Jason Hastings
GenNexter and Associate Director, Community Services
United Way of London & Middlesex