A variety of programs work around the clock, every day of the year to assist friends and neighbors with far more than crisis situations, in every segment of our community. Education and prevention are keys to breaking negative cycles, creating lasting changes and taking care of the whole person. Here is a brief look at United Way donor dollars in action on an average day. 

6 a.m. A woman drops her son off at West Central Industries. She is relieved to know that he will learn skills that will provide independence and self sufficiency. 

7 a.m.  Campers at Friendship Ventures awake to another day of play, nature discovery and group activities designed to promote self-esteem, while teaching life-enhancing skills.  

8 a.m.  A first time parent is provided information from a Public Health Nurse regarding new baby care, infant/child growth and development, home safety, parenting and community resources. 

9 a.m.  A nine-year-old girl attends McLeod County Day Camp, learning leadership skills she will use throughout her life. 

10 a.m.  A volunteer from Courage Center picks up a woman in Winsted and drives to her medical rehabilitation appointment, so that she may lead a healthier, more independent life. 

11 a.m.  A third grade class participates in a series of sessions regarding their roles as individuals, workers and consumers while learning about economic and workforce issues though Junior Achievement.  

12 p.m.  A local family that does not have winter clothes receives warm coats, hats and gloves from Common Cup Ministry. 

1 p.m.  A family of four in Stewart moves into a stable home built by Crow River Habitat for Humanity volunteers. 

2 p.m.  An American Red Cross instructor presents to a Silver Lake class about emergency preparedness. 

3 p.m.  Children arrive at an afterschool program provided by McLeod County 4-H, rather than going home to an empty house. 

4 p.m.  A ten-year-old boy from a low-income family is able to participate in athletic activities through the Hutchinson Parks, Recreation and Community Education. 

5 p.m.  An elderly woman sits down to a hot meal provided by Lutheran Social Services-Senior Nutrition Program. 

6 p.m.  A toddler and her parents participate in a class that nurtures growth and development of their family through Early Childhood Family Education. 

7 p.m.  A local Girl Scout troop meets to rake leaves for a terminally ill patient. 

8 p.m.  A small group of parents who have lost a child meet to lend support to each other through Compassionate Friends. 

9 p.m.  A father attends a Parent Connection meeting for support and help in dealing with parenting issues. 

10 p.m.  Parents put their children to bed by reading the newest book they received as part of the Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library program. 

11 p.m.  A family does not go hungry tonight thanks to the McLeod Emergency Food Shelf. 

12 a.m.  Civil Air Patrol Cadets return from a search and rescue mission. 

1 a.m.  A young woman is checking into Shelter House to escape an abusive relationship. 

2 a.m.  The Salvation Army provides emergency assistance and temporary housing for a family who has lost their home to fire. 

3 a.m.  A young woman calls the McLeod Alliance for Victims of Domestic Violence help line to find information regarding protection orders. 

4 a.m.  A family is warm in their beds thanks to assistance provided by Heartland Community Action. 

5 a.m.  A mother in need of formula for her infant daughter calls 2-1-1 for free information and referral services. She is referred to local agency that provides assistance for low income families.

(This article was written by UWMC Executive Director Paul Thompson for local newspapers)