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A Message from the Campaign Chair

As state employees, we are inherently dedicated to serving Idahoans – we made the decision to work for state government for many reasons but one of the biggest reasons is to have a positive impact on the lives of Idahoans. Yet, at the end of the day, we go home, we talk to our neighbors, we watch the news, and we scroll through social media to find endless stories of how our communities need us. We hear heartbreaking stories of how a single mother’s once stable life is completely upended due to unforeseen health issues resulting in her inability to financially provide for her children. We hear stories of devastating fires that destroy everything a family owns. These stories are gut-wrenching and can feel daunting because we know we cannot possibly help everyone. As told in a story by Mister Rogers, when he would see scary things in the news his mother would remind him to “Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.” My name is Janelle White, Idaho's Interim Human Resource Administrator, and this year's "United We Care" campaign Chairman for State of Idaho employees. The United We Care Charitable Giving Campaign for State Employees kicks off on October 1st. Through the United We Care Charitable Giving Campaign, we have an incredible opportunity to be “the helpers” for those in our community. The state’s partnership with United Way means that we get to give a small portion of our time or money to an organization that can turn our helping spirit into action and our generosity into change. For one month out of the year, we have the opportunity to sign a pledge for a payroll donation. Your donation could be as small as $5 a paycheck or more if you can afford to. Your donation supports life-changing programs in our communities that make a difference in the lives of thousands of Idaho children and families. This opportunity also allows you to participate in your agency's organized events designed to bring people together in a fun way to raise funds for these initiatives. If every state employee donates just $5 per paycheck, we could raise over a million dollars! It doesn't take much; it only takes everyone! Please join me in making a payroll donation this year for United Way. The funds raised will stay in your local communities. When you pledge to give, United Way promises to make a difference.