There is so much of great importance going on in the nation and the world today that most of us have little time to consider what may be more important close to home. Lest we forget in the major political embroilment about what “health care reform” might look like or if it should even be considered, there are related issues here at home that need our attention.
Kitsap County is blessed by having one of the most generous and caring group of citizens in the state and in the country. If there is a need for assistance in our community, there is an individual or group ready to help in any way necessary or possible. Through the continuing efforts of United Way, the Health District, school districts and countless other organizations, there is a near-continuous monitoring and survey effort to properly identify and prioritize the various problems that impact us all in our day-to-day lives. Over the past year when food and housing became major concerns as unemployment rose, the food banks and emergency housing organizations stepped up to help those in need. Over the past two years, a program for dental assistance to needy youngsters resulted in a major reduction in the number of children entering school who had never visited a dentist or received essential dental care. Because of that program, a significant number of children are now able to concentrate on school work rather than the pain of dental problems. In another program, police officers on the beat are able to make direct contact with needy kids and provide a voucher for a jacket, shoes or school supplies that will facilitate attendance and better performance in school. Did you know Kitsap County is a “preferred” duty station for military families who have special needs children? Organizations in Kitsap support those needs and those military families.
All of these good things normally take place without much notice or fanfare. In some cases, we may have begun to just expect that sort of thing to happen naturally here in Kitsap. But it is not natural and it is not automatic. The fact we are able to take care of our own so well is a combination of an exceptional volunteer spirit and individual generosity. Both are essential and without both the system will not function and support will wane.
In September, we will again be challenged by our (yes it is ours) Kitsap County United Way and the Combined Federal Campaign to dig a bit deeper to help our community. It is always helpful when some give much. We are all better off when many give some. If you are not currently a supporter of the United Way campaign, now is the time to develop a fine personal habit of giving. If your employer supports an in-house campaign, become a champion and encourage all to give something. With a workforce of about 100,000, an average donation of $20 a year (less than $2 a month) would support the annual drive goal of $2 million. All it takes is the time and commitment to become a part of the campaign and an active supporter of your community services help line.
A special note to our wandering citizens who cross the Sound for employment or who are covered by the Combined Federal Campaign at their workplace. For the Combined Federal Campaign participants, please take the time to make sure all or a major portion of the funds you donate will actually return to Kitsap County and support your current “home.” You can ask your CFC coordinator for the proper codes and entries to make that happen.
For those of you participating in United Way campaigns in King, Pierce or Snohomish counties, or elsewhere outside Kitsap, please mark your pledge card to “designate” your funds to United Way of Kitsap County or any other Kitsap agency you desire. The only sure way for you to get your donation money “home” is for you to make that “Kitsap” designation. Otherwise, your donation stays to help the county where you work. Remember to “Designate Kitsap County” and support the needs close to home.
Jack Hamilton can be reached at gradiver@wavecable.com.
