President's Message

Dear Supporters, Volunteers, and Community Members,

We want to start by expressing our heartfelt gratitude to each one of you for your unwavering support. Your dedication to our mission is truly inspiring and has a profound impact on the lives of many in Middlesex County.

In 2023, Middlesex United Way experienced significant financial cuts but also positive changes. We revamped processes to better serve the community and faced new challenges to adapt to the changing times. As part of our 2023-2024 grant cycle, our Community Impact Council awarded over $260,000 to local agencies providing essential resources to families. Our affinity groups, including Women United and Emerging Leaders Society, played pivotal roles in hosting exciting events and fundraising activities.

We also celebrated milestones, hosting our inaugural President's Masquerade Ball at the Wadsworth Mansion in October. These achievements are a testament to the incredible team of volunteers, board members, and committee members committed to our mission.

However, 2023 also shed light on the growing need for support in Middlesex County. The 2023 ALICE Report revealed startling statistics, indicating that more families in our communities are struggling to make ends meet. The 2-1-1 Helpline received over 13,000 calls in Middlesex County alone, highlighting the urgency of the situation.

As we express our gratitude, we reflect on the values that make our community strong and vibrant. "Engage, Give, and Get Others to Do the Same" resonates with us as we embark on another year. Engagement is the heartbeat of our thriving community, and your involvement, whether through financial contributions or volunteering, has made a significant impact.

Generosity is a powerful force that transforms lives. Our rich history of giving, be it time, skills, or resources, has created a tapestry of goodwill. Let's celebrate the impact of our collective generosity and challenge ourselves to give even more generously in the future.

Our influence extends beyond our individual actions. We have the power to inspire and mobilize others to join us on this journey of engagement and generosity. By getting others to embrace the spirit of giving, we amplify the impact of our collective efforts. As we reflect on the past and look toward the future, let's reaffirm our commitment to "Engage, Give, and Get Others to Do the Same." Together, we can create a legacy that goes far beyond our individual contributions. Thank you for your dedication, passion, and unwavering commitment to the values that define us.

Here's to a year filled with meaningful engagement, boundless generosity, and the joy of inspiring others to do the same.

Shawonda S. Swain

President & CEO, Middlesex United Way