Throughout my career as a firefighter/EMT and fire officer, I have spent plenty of time assisting people suffering from every kind of challenge: homelessness, addiction, domestic violence, mental illness, terminal diseases, hunger and the loss of homes and belongings in fires. The needs in our community are very real, and your emergency responders see this every day. For every one of these afflictions and circumstances, there is a United Way member agency on scene or in the wings ready to help with housing, food, clothing, counseling, financial assistance and other kinds of support. I've developed a great appreciation for what these agencies do and how well they do it.

I've also had the privilege to serve on the United Way of Tanana Valley allocations panel for the last several years. The allocations panel is a group of community members that review each agency's finances, personnel, objectives and impacts in great detail. As a result, I can assure you with confidence that the United Way member agencies are those that are best-equipped to solve the most urgent needs in our community. They also have the lowest administrative costs possible.

This is a terrible financial climate in which to be asking for donations. But the needs in the community are not diminished. Even a small contribution through payroll deduction can make a tremendous difference in someone's life. Will you consider donating? If so, please click here. Thank you for your consideration.