Happy 2008 and welcome to our redesigned monthly updates!  Like they say "out with the old and in with the new."  Our hope is that you'll not only learn about how your investment in the community is making a difference, but that you will also be inspired to volunteer in our community, and learn something new.  If there is anything else you would like to see in our updates, please call us at 336-2095 or email brandi@seuw.org.

Your Gift in Action in After School Programs

18-25 kids with disabilities and their siblings had a safe, fun place to be during the winter break from school.  The Liberty Center provided them with fun activities, allowing their parents to continue working while their children were out of school.

The Dell Rapids Community Haven provided crafts, snack times and games to 95 different students before and after school during December.

The average daily attendance at the 5 Sioux Falls sites for the YMCA Middle School After School program was 389 during December. 

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Volunteer Opportunities

Volunteer Income Tax Assistance
Volunteers receive training on how to prepare simple tax returns and then provide assistance to households with incomes less than $40,000 in preparing their taxes.  10 volunteers are still needed for the program in February.  More

Family Visitation Center
Volunteers are responsible for ensuring children have a positive visitation with one or more caregivers in a safe, child-focused setting.  More

Sioux Empire United Way Corner

Last Friday, January 11, Sioux Empire United Way shared with over 100 volunteers, partner agency staff, and supporters the 2008 Campaign total.

This year the community invested $9,045,448 which was 104% of the goal of $8,662,511. The total is an 8.3% increase over last year's campaign total.

During the event, held at Wells Fargo Financial, everyone in attendance learned the ABCs of United Way, as well as what raising $9 million means to the Sioux Empire.

Thanks to everyone who helped to make this year's campaign a success!

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In This Issue

Safe Snow Shoveling
Your Gift in Action
Volunteer Opportunities
After School Program Is Like Family
Sioux Empire United Way Corner

Safe Snow Shoveling

While our winter wonderland can be beautiful, individuals need to remember to be safe while shoveling snow from their walkways and driveways.  Here are some tips for shoveling safely:

*  If you have a history of heart trouble, do not shovel without a doctor's permission.
*  Do not shovel after eating or while smoking.
*  Take it slow! Shoveling can raise your heart rate and blood pressure dramatically.  Be sure to stretch out and warm up before taking on the task.
*  More

Source:  National Safety Council

In Sioux Falls the Scoop It program provides low-income elderly and disabled persons with snow-shoveling assistance.  For more information visit www.helplinecenter.org or call 211.

Workers on Wheels also provides wintertime assistance to elderly individuals.  Volunteers complete minor home repairs, help with winter chores, provide transportation, and also scoop snow for those not served by the Scoop It program.  To learn more or to inquire about volunteering, call 333-3317 or visit www.cfag.org.

After School Program
Is Like Family

“Coming here gives me something to do,” says Tony. Tony’s been coming to KIDSTOP since he was in kindergarten. He’s now in 4th grade.

The program also provides peace of mind to his mother, Teresa “Tony really belongs here, it feels just like a family.”

Click here for their story.