United Way reveals new direction during media luncheon

About 30 people attending the United Way of Southeast Missouri media luncheon were thanked for their contributions in delivering a clear, consistent and inspiring message to ask for the public's help in meeting the United Way's past challenges. An all-around thanks to everyone was made by Nancy Jernigan, executive director, at the event held at Celebrations restaurant.

The upcoming campaign challenge focuses on the "team" approach, and Jernigan asked media partners to understand that funding youth development agencies is not the only solution to strengthening communities. She explained they have found that people who need help are slipping through the cracks.

"We'll be asking you to help us put together the big picture because you guys have the skills to tell their stories," Jernigan said.

To make an impact on the community, she stressed the importance of making the public aware of homelessness, the increase of at-risk children and that many families are struggling with self-sufficiency.

Jernigan said, "We'd like to find out firsthand how to make smarter investment decisions. We need to tell the community the whole story. How many people are really in trouble? What's the situation for people really struggling?"

The organization's mission statement is to serve as the leader in uniting people and resources around health and human service issues to build a stronger and healthier community.