A couple of months ago, United Way turned 99 years old. My fearless leader, Jessica Di Santo, shared some of her favorite antidotes to living a long life: exercise daily, get a great education, drink from the faucet, love people and – wait for it – don’t die too early. All great tips (and I’d say that even if she wasn’t my boss).
So, let’s say you do make it to see 100. What should you do then?
This one is easy – Celebrate!
And now that United Way is gearing up for its centennial milestone, celebrate is what we intend to do.
Moments before our annual meeting earlier this month, we made a big splash and likely took over your social media feeds (you’re welcome). Hundreds of hand raisers and game changers from every corner of Central Indiana showed off their commemorative receiver gloves and posted photos to say, “Hey, I’m fighting for the education, financial stability, health and basic needs of everyone in our community!”
From government officials to partner agencies, pro athletes, news personalities and everyone in between – our hand raisers made a statement that was loud and clear.
Indianapolis team mascots even got in on the action waving their foam hands proudly. Seriously, how cute are these guys?
And everyone’s favorite interactive hand print artwork created quite the buzz at IndyVolved12 and the Indy Pride Festival.
Let’s face it… just because we’re getting older, certainly doesn’t mean we plan to slow down. In fact, I’d argue to say that we’re just getting started.
So be on the lookout. United Way hand raisers and game changers are everywhere. Don’t believe me? Visit your favorite social media platform and search #uwci100 to see who’s already stepped up to the plate. While you’re there, we’d love to hear from you! Why are a game changer? Don’t forget to use #uwci100.
And if you’re not quite sure how to get involved, we’ve got you covered. Visit uwci.org/100 to see a list of 100 ways to get involved in United Way’s 100th Birthday Celebration.
Cheers to the next 100 years!
Ty Spisak is the marketing and public relations manager at United Way of Central Indiana. Most mornings you can find her and her adorable her pup, Bonnie, enjoying a run in downtown Indy before the sun rises. She hails from Muncie, Indiana and studied telecommunications at Ball State University.
