Spreading Kindness & Warmth in the Community
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United Way of Greater Milwaukee & Waukesha County

Spreading Kindness & Warmth in the Community

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When you hear the phrase “winter in Wisconsin,” what is the first thing you think of? Is it the bitter cold, ice, snow? As Wisconsinites, we recognize firsthand the biting toll this weather can take on our bodies. Most of us are equipped to take on this weather – we put a hat on our head, gloves on our hands, and scarves around our necks – but what about those less fortunate who do not have these items to ward off the frigid air? Thankfully, there are many community members and companies who acknowledge this necessity and take action by donating winter items to those in need.

I was particularly moved by the drive Columbia St. Mary’s initiated – not only did they collect winter accessories and blankets, but also children’s books and dental supplies. The volunteers at Columbia St. Mary’s understand the various needs in the community: ranging from the basic necessity of covering up in the winter, to encouraging literacy in our youth, to the importance of proper dental care. Columbia St. Mary’s sponsors the St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Dental Clinic, a United Way program partner, which provides dental care to people in poverty without access to care.

The ambassador at Columbia St. Mary’s, Pam Bauman, Regional Director of Oncology Services, called to inform me the drive was over and the items were ready to be picked up – but first she wanted us to pose for a photo with the people who were instrumental in the its success.

When I arrived, I met the fantastic volunteer, Leilani Ziller, Director of Accreditation and Performance Improvement at Columbia St. Mary’s, and two adorable little girls – Leilani’s granddaughters, Jena and Emylee. Leilani, or ‘Lani,’ as she prefers, attributed much of the drive’s success to these two lovely (and photogenic!) children. As we were taking the photos, I turned to them and asked if they enjoyed doing nice things for people. One of them looked up at me and said “Yes! Do you know what I really like? When people say ‘thank you’ when you hold the door open for them. That’s really nice.”

The sweet innocence of children, who do good things simply because it seems like the right thing to do, left me with a feeling of hope for the future – if these two little girls are representative of whom we’re handing this world over to, I know it’s in good hands.

Looking to take part in an act of kindness? Join us for the Reading Blitz March 24! Or, check out our Volunteer page to find supply drives and other opportunities.