Dear Editor,

As we once again become engrossed in a flurry of hectic holiday preparations, we are constantly reminded that this is a season of giving not receiving. So many of you have given generously of your talents and resources throughout 2006 – all of you who made gifts to nonprofits, who volunteered your precious time, who partnered with United Way and other organizations in championing causes. You are surely thinking of others and giving of yourselves. In fact, you are changing the world.

Because of you, Bridgeport’s Blueprint for Young Children was made possible. And one day in the near future all of our youngest residents will enter school ready to learn.

Because of you, last year more than 10,974 students received the benefits of quality afterschool programs, and a community-wide Education Summit to ensure students graduate high school college ready was held. And one day in the near future all of our students will be sufficiently prepared to compete in an ever-expanding global economy.

Because of you, a comprehensive 10-Year Plan to End Homelessness is being implemented, and rent, security pools and interest-free loans to prevent individuals from suffering homelessness are available. And one day in the near future, everyone in our community will have a place to call home.

Because of you, last year 1,000,000 meals were served to our neighbors in need, and scores of them received training to hone their literacy skills and employment skills. And one day in the near future, every one of our neighbors will have ample food, employment, medical services and other necessities to become, and remain, self-sufficient.

For the lasting changes in people’s lives that you have made possible, we thank you and resolve in 2007 to enhance our partnerships with each of you to continue to make our community an even better place in which to live, work and raise our families.

Merle Berke-Schlessesl, Esq.

United Way of Eastern Fairfield County, CEO/President