United Way’s Live United Campaign Runs Sept. 1 to Nov. 15.

With gas prices soaring, grocery costs increasing, and the housing market in decline, United Way was concerned on how to set a realistic campaign goal this year. Even in tough times, United Way’s new “Live United” campaign makes it easy for everyone to get involved-by giving, advocating or volunteering.

Live United: A credo. A mission. A goal.

A constant reminder that when we as individuals think outside ourselves, we have the power to facilitate change. When we think of others’ lives as linked to our own, our compassion grows. When we reach out a hand to one we influence the condition of all. We build the strength of our neighborhoods. We bolster the health of our communities. And we change the lives of those who walk by us every day.

To give. To advocate. To volunteer. Because united we stand. United, we elevate. United, we persevere. United, we move through. Above. And beyond. United, we change what we see in the world. The Live United campaign is about the power of unity.

We ask that all of you be part of the movement to advance the common good right here in Island County. Because united we change what we see in our community.

United Way’s Community Fund is an easy and powerful way to create lasting change in our own community. By giving to the Community Investment Fund, you are investing in the building blocks of a good life: helping children and youth succeed, support vulnerable and aging populations and strengthening and supporting families.

When you give to United Way’s Community Investment Fund, you are investing in a strategic effort to create lasting change by addressing the underlying causes of community problems. United Way has done the homework so we know where to target resource to make the biggest impact.

You can make change happen with your voice. Get informed. Tell your friends. Write a letter to the editor. Write a letter to your legislator. United Way needs people who are passionate about helping children and youth succeed, supporting vulnerable and aging populations and strengthening and supporting families.

United Way can help find volunteer opportunities for individuals, work teams or community groups. Visit our newly created on-line volunteer center Volunteer Solutions at https://vsadmin.united.-e-.way.org/uwoic/volun

teer to sign up.

Visit www.unitedwayic.org and be part of the Live United campaign.

Cathy Niiro is executive director of United Way for Island County.