United Way at Mississippi State

Unite for the United Way

Dear Fellow Bulldogs:

Each fall, MSU employees and students are asked to participate in the United Way campaign. You might wonder why. How does United Way benefit you? What does United Way do in your community? Why can't you just sit it out this year and participate next year?

What does the money that you give to United Way do? For one thing, it produces results. And, as a head coach, I know that results are important. United Way produces visible results, such as affordable homes built through Habitat for Humanity and disaster assistance provided through the American Red Cross and Salvation Army. It builds shelters for families and provides medical assistance for the most needy. United Way agencies provide safe havens for families and children when they have no where else to turn. It helps provide safe and humane treatment for unwanted, lost, and abused animals.

Our theme, "Unite for United Way" says a lot. It says that we all support this campaign for the same reason - to better the lives of the people around us - people who sometimes need help. It says that we are willing to give just a little so that community needs can be met. It says that we value opportunities for our youth, and help for our senior citizens. It says that we know the importance of affordable housing. It says that we want to make sure that families in crisis have somewhere to turn. It says that we have character—and care.

I agreed to chair this year's MSU United Way campaign because I care about our community and the people who live here. If we all sit on the bench, we won't win this game. We can only win if we have a goal in sight and work toward that goal.

This year, as we "Unite for United Way," our goal is to work together to contribute at least $110,000 to our local United Way. And, to do that, we have to get the ball rolling (not dribbling this time), give our best, and watch as we score a win for MSU—and our community.

I am asking for your participation and support. Every contribution counts. You may not be a basketball player, but you can play on our United Way team. And this year, let's play to win.

Sincerely,

Sharon Fanning, Head Women's Basketball Coach
Chair, MSU United Way Campaign