Live United by Erin Haag

 

We’ve been a little quiet here at United Way of Freeborn County. Our newsletter has been on hiatus, and we’re not tweeting, posting or instagramming. Here in the building, though, that’s where the action is. Our current work isn’t splashy. It’s the foundational work of updating policies, updating our computers, attending trainings and doing financial reviews. It’s the process of brainstorming, tugging on threads and chasing them down. Despite the routine work of any administration, we’re having fun!

Kristin and I are firm believers in creating a work environment that is fun and welcoming for everyone who comes into our world. It’s the little things like pictures of our children, artwork, aromatherapy and bright pink flowers. A gentleman came into the office and looked at Kristin sitting at her desk, “What are you here for? To arm wrestle me?” Kristin smiled, stuck out her arm and said, “Come on, let’s go.” She’s a graceful loser, all three times. That same day, a couple celebrating their 50th anniversary by visiting the town where they started their family came in. They remembered the days when this building was the Albert House, and we took a trip upstairs to the attic to visit the original bar that’s still standing.

We’re having fun with our job. We’re getting ready to make our splash into the community, starting with Wind Down Wednesday on July 17. I hope you’ll stop by, bowl a little, share a little about your culture and hear about the power of five with United Way of Freeborn County. We’re hoping you’ll let us take a picture, and if you have an item that represents your culture, bring it along! We want to see it. Maybe it’s your military uniform or the instrument that is a part of your soul. Maybe it’s a lefse roller or your Karen traditional dress. There’s a rumor about some fabulous dancers performing — please come by!

Until you can come meet us in person, let me tell you about Amanda Buchannan. Amanda has been an advocate for years, working tirelessly on behalf of her children. She recently learned about United Way and was enthusiastic about expanding her efforts to help a variety of organizations.

When I first met Amanda, she told me about volunteering with the Prosperity Garden in Kiester, where she works. Prosperity Gardens is a community garden that is donated, planted, kept up and harvested by the community. Anyone is welcome to help themselves to fresh produce. In my mind, anyone who’s part of such a great community effort would easily understand the United Way’s mission and be invested in our community.

You can find her enjoying the burgers at Green Lea, along with a round of golf, spending the whole week at our county fair and watching our fireworks display. Her bucket list includes taking a cooking class in Italy. When that day comes, I’m volunteering myself to be a taste tester when she returns.

Amanda treasures her memories of being with her grandfather on his ranch. From him, she learned the value of hard work and the sweet reward of spending time together after the work was done, getting a treat in town. Those values have been ingrained into her, and she hopes to pass those same values onto her family, teaching the importance of showing respect and helping others when possible.

With these values, Amanda is willing to sit down and have a conversation, to provide insight on our community and to build relationships, especially if there’s pecan pie involved. When I heard about her love for pecan pie, I realized that I’ve never had a piece of pecan pie. I’m counting on Amanda to help me check it off my bucket list and take me to the best pecan pie in the city.

We’re looking forward to seeing you at Wind Down Wednesday!

Erin Haag is the interim director of the United Way of Freeborn County.