Amid all the chatter associated with two upcoming elections, and with all of the other things that happen on a day-to-day basis, sometimes we need a reminder of what an incredible community we live in.
Leave it to the United Way Estevan – and the many people who support it – to do just that.
The United Way hosted its 48th annual Telethon on the weekend. When all of the pledges and donations were tabulated, the United Way had raised more than $380,000, which represents a new off-air record.
Long-time residents of Estevan are well-versed in the impact of the United Way on the area and the support the telethon receives each year. Numbers released by the United Way in their annual report for 2023 show that 7,500 people benefitted, either directly or indirectly, from the efforts of the member agencies and/or the community impact projects.
That number is likely higher; you might not have benefitted from the efforts of one of these organizations or programs, but you likely know someone who has, even if many people won't talk about it.
And there are a lot of people in Estevan who have undoubtedly benefitted from the efforts of more than one recipient of United Way funding.
People know that when they give money to the United Way, the donation is going to help people in the community. It doesn't get trapped in overhead expenses and some of the other issues that have hindered other non-profits. And people can see the benefits when they access the services of the member agencies.
Children learn from an early age about the benefits of the United Way. Hundreds of school students perform during the telethon each year. Yes, there are the joys associated with getting out of school, being on TV and showcasing their skills for family and friends, but the kids fondly remember their time at the telethon.
They have fun with the fundraisers and they get to learn how their money makes a difference. It's an early introduction to the benefits of volunteering.
The telethon brings so many people together. Not only do the kids make a big impact, but there will be entertainers of all ages and types. You'll see singers, dancers and instrumentalists. The bid items and the quilt raffle allow people to show their creativity.
And there are people who volunteer by answering phones, operating cameras, hosting, helping out in the kitchen, taking donations and more.
The telethon is an event that brings out the best in so many of us, and once it's finished and the off-air total is announced, you get that special feeling, knowing that people in the community are going to benefit.
The United Way Telethon wasn't the only thing happening in Estevan this past weekend, with the oldest model engineer show in the continent, an early childhood summit, Halloween activities, a fundraiser, youth sports and more.
It's not going to slow down in the coming days, either, with more activities for Halloween, more fundraisers, more youth sports and other efforts. These are all great parts of the community, too.
Who says there's nothing to do in Estevan?
Even during the tough times, these years of uncertainty, and even with all of the political talk, we still rally together to show support for each other in so many different ways, whether it be through donations, volunteering or looking for ways to make a difference. And that's part of what makes Estevan such a great community to be in.
