Jeannie's Story

When I first started volunteering for United Way, I had already been volunteering for other non-profit agencies. While volunteering for various other agencies, I learned so much about all the wonderful support United Way provides for our community as a whole. This inspired me to volunteer more and more for United Way. They are vital to our community as they provide support for individuals, non-profits, educational systems, shelters, and so much more throughout our area. They truly bring communities together, especially in times of need.

My main reason for volunteering is that God calls us to help those in need. Volunteering is the best way I can serve our Lord as well as our community. However, over time, it has become so much more. Through volunteering, I have gained new friends, new connections, and new insights into what is happening in my community. I work in a career field where I see, hear, and experience the daily struggles of those I serve. Volunteering for United Way has made me more knowledgeable of services that can assist those I work with. Knowing that I am making a difference in my community and neighbors through volunteering for United Way is one of the greatest accomplishments I will ever feel. I am not always able to donate monetarily, but I am always able to donate my time…especially for such an important cause.

 I must mention that I am more encouraged to volunteer because of the staff at United Way of Fort Smith Area. I cannot think of any others who work as hard as they do. They are so non-stop that I do not think they even sleep, which inspires me even more to continue volunteering. I love the staff so much that I consider family and will forever be grateful for the volunteer opportunities they provide me.