To the Editor:

I am sorry to miss the exciting 70th celebration of the Franklin-Southampton Area United Way.

During the 10 years I worked with our United Way, I met many kind and generous people. While volunteers came from many walks of life, certain characteristics belonged to all.

Every individual involved with United Way had a desire to reach out to others in need and had a vision of a better community. This commitment to community has been witnessed throughout the years and can still be seen today.

During its 70 years, the Franklin-Southampton Area United Way has funded many needed services, including activities for youth, assistance for families and programs for seniors. Citizens of Franklin and Southampton County have rallied to support in difficult economic times as well as in good times.

Programs and services funded by the United Way have changed over the past 70 years. In order to meet the most critical needs of a changing community, the approach to funding has also changed over time.

Throughout the years, however, the basic vision of a better community has remained our primary focus.

Volunteers and community donors can be proud and honored to be supporters of the Franklin-Southampton Area United Way. Current leaders can be reassured that, by carrying on a long tradition, they follow in the footsteps of thousands of concerned and caring community leaders. Likewise, many of our neighbors and friends have been, and will be, thankful for the blessing of United Way services provided in the future.

Mary S. DePuy
Former Executive Director
Franklin-Southampton Area United Way