Live United!

How do you live United? That is the question that United Way has asked of our community members this year. How do you support United Way and our community. There are many ways to do it the easiest and most beneficial to a wide array of organizations in our community is to support United Way. Robeson County 4-H is one of 18 United Way organizations in Robeson County. If it weren't for United Way funds we would not be able to offer the majority of programs we offer and could not offer reasonable prices on those programs that require co-pays.

Today marked the annual United Way Day of Caring. As part of this there are a variety of activities that occur that show United Way's support in the community. For example groups went out and built wheel chair ramps for people who can not afford them and need them. A group went out and cleaned a two mile stretch of a Robeson County road leaving our environment cleaner for all of us. The Red Cross had a blood drive. Southeastern Regional Medical Center held a health screening to check blood pressure, body mass, and glucose screenings. Volunteers were stationed at Wal-mart and local grocery stores collected canned food items. At Jerry Johnson Chevrolet (who so graciously hosts this event each year) canned goods were being dropped off and sorted, information was provided, a hot dog lunch was prepared for volunteers, and several local radio stations did remotes highlighting the days activities.

How does 4-H live United in Robeson County?

-As part of the Day of Caring our "Dirty Rascals" Junior Master Gardener 4-H Club worked with Hospice House to complete a planting project.

-As part of the canned food drive everyone in the 4-H office and our Extension office gave at least five cans of food to help reach the 25,000 pound goal. The food is being distributed to the Church and Community Centers in Lumberton and Red Springs, the Family Violence Shelter, Lumberton Christian Care, BART, and other organizations that help feed the hungry.

-Shea Ann DeJarnette, our 4-H Agent, was stationed at Jerry Johnson Friday with volunteers from CIS to answer questions and give out information about the United Way agencies.

-Aggie Rogers, our 4-H Program Associate, is signed up to help sort canned goods on Monday.

-Each year every member of the 4-H staff gives to United Way and helps with the United Way Campaign in the Robeson County Extension office.

-Robeson County 4-H staff members also promote United Way at every event, and remind our youth and volunteers how fortunate and grateful we are for their support.

Living United doesn't take making a huge donation, it takes caring for your community and getting out there to support those who need help. The Day of Caring is a day for United Way Agencies to give back. Each day our 4-H volunteers give back by their work in our 4-H program helping youth become successful adults. It is an investment of time, resources and knowledge in our most precious commodity, our youth. It will pay off ten fold as they grow, become successful, and give back to their communities. Don't forget to say thank you to the United Way for their support, and volunteers, parents, and members please accept our thanks for all that you do as part of our 4-H program.

4-H LIVES UNITED!