Women united august meeting

United Way Women United held their second in-person meeting of the year this last Friday, where discussion surrounding students returning to school was covered in a variety of aspects. ASPIRE, a program headed by United Way's Jodi Blackman, is a nation-wide mentoring program that offers students access to adult mentors outside of school. The ASPIRE program within Salem-Keizer school district is currently seeking additional volunteer mentors, and this message was extended to members of Women United. If you are interested in this opportunity, contact Jodi Blackman at jblackman@unitedwaymwv.org.

Red Cart has been preparing for the return of in-person schooling with the invaluable support of United Way's community partners. The LDS Girl's Camp recently collected and packaged nine boxes worth of ready to distribute supplies. Willamette Valley Bank also contributed with a considerable effort by packaging donated supplies. The Keizer Chamber of Commerce ran a collection drive that contributed over 1,000 tampons and 300 pads, which is a terrific indicator of community support. That being said, Red Cart will continue to need donations of light, regular, and sport tampons. As September approaches, communication with schools will pick up and the project will continue to expand. With expansion of the project in mind, Women United is also looking into the needs of elementary schools. More age-appropriate kits including underwear, pads, light tampons, and sanitary wipes will be put together to contribute towards these schools' resource cabinets or closets. 

SafeSleep United was also discussed, as we are hiring a night associate to help support efforts at the shelter. Currently open every night with a capacity of 19 ladies, we have received funding of $400,000 to cover costs for a remodel which would increase capacity to 50. Although this work will not begin until next year, an additional support staff is needed as soon as possible. If you would like to learn more about the position and the application process, please click here. 

Lastly, important upcoming dates regarding United Way's Kick-Off Week were announced as a reminder. National Day of Caring will be held on Wednesday September 15th, where United Way will work with local businesses and non-profits for service projects. If you would like to participate, contact Stephanie Bobb at sbobb@unitedwaymwv.org