2023-Annual-Report-052223-Digital-FINAL-Updated-Single-Pages - Flipbook - Page 4
Dear friends,
As kids, most of us were taught that we could grow up to be anything we wanted—
teacher, doctor, painter, astronaut. That our lives were a blank book, the pages ready
to be filled with our stories of adventure, travel, love or family. That while the path
ahead would certainly contain its fair share of obstacles … if we just worked hard
enough, and chose carefully enough, that path would lead us to something special.
And now, here we are … all grown up. And we find ourselves saying the same things to
our kids or our grandkids. Asking them to dream big and imagine what’s possible.
Because at our core, don’t we all want the same things? The chance to live life to
its fullest. To learn and grow and pursue our dreams. To create a home and share
meals with our families. To grow older with our health and dignity, surrounded by
community.
To live a beautiful life.
It’s really not too much to ask. But for some, the barriers to this ordinary, beautiful life
are steep. For some, challenges start at birth and continue well into their retirement
years. For some, the obstacles to learning, to graduating, to making a livable wage or
staying healthy and free of disease feel insurmountable.
But we, at United Way of Greater Nashville, refuse to accept this—for ourselves, for our
neighbors, for our collective future. To us, giving up is not an option.
We are committed to building a brighter future. A future where no one lives in poverty.
A future where all kids learn and succeed. A future where everyone’s basic needs are
met. A future where families are healthy and strong.
Because we believe that together, we can imagine a future … where opportunities are
endless, connections are made and dreams are realized.
Together, we can create a community … where every person, every child and every
family, thrives.
Because we believe that together …
Anything is possible. For everyone.
Sincerely,
John Crosslin
2022 Board Chair
United Way Board of Trustees
Brian Hassett
President & CEO
United Way of Greater Nashville
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