By: Tina Prather
State Journal Register
April 14, 2024
As April flowers unfold their petals, Volunteer Appreciation Month offers a timely opportunity to recognize and celebrate the unsung heroes who work tirelessly behind the scenes. While volunteers often take on visible roles in community events and outreach programs, there exists a dedicated group whose contributions may go unnoticed but are no less vital. At United Way of Central Illinois (UWCIL), these individuals form the backbone of the organization, quietly fueling its mission and impact.
Behind every successful initiative lies a team of volunteers who diligently handle analyzation of grant applications, follow up, and accountability. From managing the grant application process every three years to making funding recommendations, to analyzing quarterly reports, these behind-the-scenes volunteers serve on what United Way calls Vision Councils, and they play a critical role in keeping the wheels turning. Their efforts may not always garner the spotlight, but their impact reverberates throughout the organization, enabling United Way to effectively serve its community.
Meet Scott Jones, Director of Community Initiatives at UWCIL whose passion for service knows no bounds. For Scott, volunteer appreciation month is not just about acknowledging those in the limelight but also recognizing the dedication and commitment of those who work quietly behind the scenes.
"Our Vision Council volunteers are the unsung heroes of United Way," he remarks. "Their contributions may not always be visible, but they are absolutely indispensable to our success."
Vision Council volunteers give hours of their own time to work diligently behind closed doors, ensuring that United Way's programs and initiatives run smoothly and efficiently and meet the necessary criteria for a successful program. Whether it's a grant recipient receiving funds in our education, basic needs, financial stability, or health focus areas, their tireless efforts to comb through data, reporting, and impact stories are the glue that holds the organization together.
Take Beverly Chapman, for example, who works at Bank of Springfield and volunteers her time on the Basic Needs Vision Council. “Volunteering with the United Way has opened my eyes to the many circumstances that create such struggles for people. I won’t ever forget the message delivered by a past UW campaign chair.
She said, “When my mother needed help, United Way was there for her. She taught me that when I can give back, GIVE.” I won’t ever forget that message. When you can give back, GIVE,” says Beverly. Volunteer appreciation month is a wonderful opportunity to shine a light on the countless individuals, like Beverly, who work tirelessly behind the scenes to make a difference.
As Volunteer Appreciation Month unfolds, United Way of Central Illinois is taking the time to express its deepest gratitude to all of its volunteers. We will continue to showcase volunteers who are making an impact in our community. We invite you to do the same – thank someone this month who gives their time for others, whether it’s at your church, school, or in your neighborhood.
"Behind every successful organization are dedicated individuals who work tirelessly behind the scenes," says Marne Fauser, CEO and President of UWCIL. "Our Vision Council volunteers are the unsung heroes of United Way, and we are immensely grateful for their dedication, passion, and tireless efforts."
In the spirit of Volunteer Appreciation Month, let us take a moment to recognize and celebrate all the volunteers of United Way of Central Illinois. Their selfless dedication and unwavering commitment are a testament to the power of community and the profound impact that can be achieved when we come together in service. Here's to the quiet heroes who work tirelessly behind the scenes. You are enriching lives and strengthening communities one act of kindness at a time.
Tina Prather is the Director of Marketing and Communications at United
Way of Central Illinois. Find out more about volunteering at https://volunteer.uwcil.org/