Pictured left to right: Edwina Kertzman, Kathy Cruse, Terri Berg, John Cass, Mari Sheldon, Carmen Keehner, Hanna Glissendorf
How can the average person in the Black Hills make a meaningful impact in their community? According to United Way of the Black Hills Executive Director, John Cass, volunteering is an extremely powerful answer to that question. “People underestimate the power of volunteering and the value of their time,” he said. “Stretch yourself — two hours a quarter. If you can, try two hours a month. Find different organizations. Find the one that you really enjoy.”
The Black Hills depends on a healthy network of nonprofits. “Our local governments are simply not able to fill in all the gaps of the needs of our communities,” John explained. “That’s why it’s important for the people of the Black Hills to support our local agencies through volunteering and funding.”
By becoming involved with a nonprofit, an individual starts to take ownership of the work of that agency. That’s why John and his staff encourage the residents of the Black Hills to take an active role in the work of local nonprofits.
The United Way of the Black Hills has a long, 80 year history of serving the region by investing in and empowering local nonprofit organizations. Long term change happens in a community when its residents are united and working together. An organization like United Way of the Black Hills is in the business of fostering that kind of cooperative atmosphere. To take the next step of volunteering or partnering financially to create long term change in your community, visit the United Way of the Black Hills’ website.
621 6th Street, Suite 100
Rapid City, SD 57701