2021 Annual Report - Flipbook - Page 3
DEAR FRIENDS,
When we began working on this year’s annual report, we asked ourselves: What
do we want our readers to take away from this past year? How should 2021—
and all the highs and lows that came along with it—be remembered? It was a big
question, in a year that was anything but ordinary. But as we flipped through the
pages, the answer came easily.
What we want to remember is the goodness, the kindness, the selflessness—the
unity—that this community continued to show each and every day. How all of
you—our neighbors, donors, volunteers and partners—didn’t give up.
Each of you has an equal and important role to play in creating real,
transformational change. No matter how small that change may be. Change
that couldn’t happen without the agencies who are walking hand-in-hand with
families who want more for their children. Or without the donors who dig deep
each year to help their neighbors have a better life. You are the ones who refuse
to give up until our community is fair and just, healthy and whole.
Last year, that change looked like Jawharrah, a single mom of three children who
built a home for her family, went back to school and opened her own business.
And Lucibeth, a generous supporter who wants every young person in our
community to have the same opportunity that’s been given to her children.
U N I T E D W AY G R E AT E R N A S H V I L L E | 2 0 2 1 A N N U A L R E P O RT
How you made sure that our families had warm holiday meals to share, our new
residents were welcomed with open arms, our kids had the tools they needed
to learn and grow, and our moms and dads found the support they needed to
move their families out of poverty for good. And we want to remember the
interconnectedness of it all. How meaningful, lasting change doesn’t come from
just one nonprofit agency, one donor, one workplace, one volunteer, but how we
really can do amazing things if we live as one.
And Karen, who is teaching the next generation and giving them the tools, love
and support to be ready for kindergarten.
And so many more.
From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for joining in, for standing up … and for
showing this community the true power of living as one.
Sincerely,
Heather Rohan
2021 Board Chair
United Way Board of Trustees
Brian Hassett
President & CEO
United Way of Greater Nashville
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