Iredell-Statesville Schools School & Family Magazine February/March 2016 | Page 10
Saying the word “teacher” conjures up
images of dedication, kindness and
service to the community. It could almost
be a synonym for those attributes we
look for when describing someone
dedicated to changing lives for the better.
What might not be as well known, however, is how far outside of the classroom walls the teachers,
staff, students and parents of the Iredell-Statesville school system reach in their efforts to build a
better community. It is my privilege to offer some insight on the difference that was made over the
last six months through the participation of the Iredell-Statesville Schools community in the United
Way campaign.
Every year the United Way and its agency partners work together to change more than 50,000
local lives for the better. When you look at the percentage of the campaign that was attributed just
to the support generated through the Iredell-Statesville Schools community, and leverage it with
the matching funds raised through our agency partners, the schools alone accounted for over
5,000 individuals getting help and support in a time of need.
To break that down even further and highlight just a few of the specific services you made possible:
• 3,562 additional meals were served to hungry families at a time when they could not
otherwise put food on the table.
• 3,364 more nights of shelter were provided to homeless individuals across our
community.
• 56 additional children had a place to go after-school or over summer break where they
received academic and social enrichment and a whole lot of love.
• 4,312 more meals were served to seniors through the meals on wheels and congregate
meals programs.
• 172 additional children participated in scouting programs year-round learning new skills
and the value of community service.
If I could shower each of you who made this possible with 5,000 notes of thanks I would. But in
the interests of keeping the postage costs down, please let me take this opportunity to say a huge
thank you. Your hard work and support makes an incredible difference in so many more lives than
you will ever know.
Sincerely,
Brett Eckerman, Executive Director
United Way of Iredell County
8 Iredell-Statesville School & Family