United & Thankful in 2020
Finding hope and things to be thankful for amid the pandemic. Let’s just admit it…The past eight months have been hard. Whether you “paused” life plans, couldn’t pause because you are an essential worker, were laid off, are homeschooling for the first time,...
2-1-1: Why Not Just Google It?
United Way 2-1-1 is a free, 24/7, 365-day information and referral resource that connects residents in Lucas, Wood and Ottawa County to various health and human services. It acts as a point of entry for people to get...
Best of 2019: Because Change Doesn’t Happen Alone
We have come to the close of an impactful year! Thousands of needs were met through 211 calls, meal and hygiene kit builds, backpack builds, our funded partners’ unique services and so much more! Read on for stories that highlight...
A Flood of Memories: Surrounded by Support During Times of Disaster
I woke in the middle of the night to the sound of rain pounding the roof and was glad Stan had fixed the leak last month. I looked to the clock on my nightstand, but its face was dark. “Stan,” I whispered. “I...
Regaining Perspective: The Value of Volunteering
Sitting at my desk, staring at my calendar above my computer, I just couldn’t believe it. Was it really almost the end of 2018? Of course, there were many exciting things I did this year: met up with some long-lost friends, moved...
When There’s Nowhere to Turn: Coordinated Entry through 2-1-1
She could feel the tension in the air. A couple weeks camped out in her cousin’s basement had quickly turned into nearly a month for Yvonne* and her five children—much longer than she originally intended. Her cousin was losing patience and, as week...