Monday, August 29, 2011

Do you have a story to share?

Are you out there hitting the pavement volunteering? Do you have an awesome idea for a good deed that can be paid forward? Did someone do something special for you and it's inspired you to give back? Help us create a revolution in inspiring others. We want to hear from you. "Be the 1" and we'll share YOUR story on this blog!

Email: uwbethe1@gmail.com


Video: Danielle interviews Volunteers about "Being the 1"

Danielle Teal, volunteer at United Way of Olmsted County visits the Running Start for Schools Distribution Day and interviews Volunteers about how they are the "1".

Music by: israel kamakawiwo'ole "somewhere over the rainbow"

*The Video may still be processing - ignore the flickering :-p

Media Alert: The “Be the 1” blog was featured in the Post Bulletin!



Post Bulletin Article
How exciting – the “Be the 1” blog was featured in the Post Bulletin. Thank you to the Zabel family for sharing their story. Thank you to the Post Bulletin (Marissa Block & Cory Pedersen) for putting this blog in the paper!

If you have a good deed or volunteer experience that YOU would like to share, please send it to uwbethe1@gmail.com ; you just might inspire someone to – pass it on by “Being the 1”!

Friday, August 12, 2011

Quote of the Week

“Many small people, in many small places, do many small things, that can alter the face of the world.” ~ Anonymous

Many "Became 1" at United Way: Running Start for School events

Many "Became 1" at United Way: Running Start for School events


As I sit here, it all seems like a blur. :) 4 days ago we had 2 events to raise donations and awareness for Running Start for Schools - provide school supplies to children who cannot afford them.


I must say that I am constantly impressed by the giving hearts of this community. Each time I'm involved in an event - I become more invested, connected and even more amazed by selflessness of time and generosity.


Like with Chris, from The Restaurant in Rochester. Upon seeing my note asking for more donations towards the Silent Auction - Chris spent the next 2 days following up to the event - hitting the pavement and securing more items. Without his contributions, the Silent Auction wouldnt have been as successful (ultimately raising over $1000). Thanks for "Being the 1".


Or like Laura and her prince charming. Both coming to the rescue on Saturday by driving all the way from the cities to volunteer themselves (reinterate - they dont even live here and came down!) and brought several bags of ice to keep the icecream cold and frozen for any sweet childs face that came along wanting some. Thanks to you both, for "Being the 1".


Or like all the beautiful people involved with Words Players. Your showstopping act was beyond the "Music Man", you showed us all how you all were the "1". Thanks for "Being the 1".



Or Eric for helping to make a very special donation happen - a signed Vikings Sideline Jacket by Percy Harvin. This alone raised $270. Thanks for "Being the 1".



Or Dan at the Wicked Moose who unfailingly supports and helps host many events such as this that provide opportunities to better lives and communities. Thanks for "Being the 1".



Or like Katheryn who helped make the Silent Auction more appealing and visible by running all the way home again to get christmas lights. Thanks for "Being the 1"



Or like Alissa, Greg, Jake, Justin and many other friends who jumped in and asked "how can I help" and did. Thanks for "Being the 1".


Or like all the United Way volunteers that registered through United Ways Volunteer Corner and showed up, took whatever came their way and helped make both events a huge success. Thanks for "Being the 1"


Thanks to the United Way staff for always "Being the 1". Even though you work there, your dedication and inspiration doesn't leave your hearts or 9-5 time frame. You're on 24/7 and for that you deserve a "Standing O"


And a round of applause, gratitude and my own personal admiration for all that attended, participated and supported Running Start for School. Children benefiting from this program will attend their first day of school with pride and hope. Thank YOU for "Being the 1"


Business(s) and Organizations that were the 1:


  • Words Players
  • R!ah Hair Studio
  • Minnesota Vikings
  • Dooleys Pub
  • Wicked Moose
  • The Restaurant
  • Miche Bags - Erin Hanson
  • Cookie Lee - Erin Hanson
  • Goonies Comedy Club
  • The Kahler
  • The Doubletree
  • Jafra - Melissa McNallan
  • Hyvee - 37th Street
  • Kemps
  • Advanced Fire Protection Services
  • Apollo
  • Colonial Lanes
  • Cici Pizza
  • Rochester Good Food Store Co-op
  • Minnesota Timberwolves
  • Minnesota Lynx
  • Conxis
  • House of Bounce



For more details on how you can help - help is still needed - please click here