Dear Sioux Empire United Way Supporter,

Did you know that last year, Red Cross volunteers responded to 46 disasters in the Sioux Empire?

After suffering a house fire, Diane said, "It's just your worst nightmare. It looked like my garage had vanished, like it had never been there. Two Red Cross volunteers were there when I arrived and it took them less than 10 minutes for paperwork. They gave us the tools to remain independent and enabled us to continue on and look to the future."

In this issue you'll learn more about how your gift to Sioux Empire United Way is helping to meet the emergency needs of our communities. Also be sure to check out our latest success story, news from United Way, and information about our annual allocations process.

Sioux Empire United Way

American Red Cross Month

Your gift to Sioux Empire United Way helps to meet emergency services needs in our communities. In honor of American Red Cross month, here is some trivia that you may not have known:

• Last year, Red Cross volunteers responded to 46 disasters in the Sioux Empire.
• Assistance provided includes funds for immediate shelter, clothing, food, as well as listening and referral support.
• Emergency responders also receive support and refreshments from Red Cross at the site of a disaster.
• Red Cross is the official link for emergency communications between family members and deployed service members.
• Last year, Red Cross assisted with 180 emergency communications needs.

News from United Way

Be sure to visit our website to learn about United Way’s recent activities:

• Several individuals and businesses were recognized at our annual Thank You Event.
• New officers were elected for our Board of Directors.
• Our 2010 Annual Report highlights our results from the previous year.
• Ten area non-profits were recently awarded grant funding for 2011 for new or expanding programs.

Community Impact Allocations Process

Nearly 100 Community Impact volunteers have begun the annual allocations process. In the next eight weeks, volunteers will meet with each of the 90+ programs requesting funds from Sioux Empire United Way for 2012. Volunteers look at community needs, outcomes, finances and more in making their allocations decisions.

To follow along with this year's process and track the number of hours our volunteers are donating, find us on Facebook.