By By Robert Blankenship
Advance Managing Editor
During the next few weeks, many will be approached to dig into their pockets and give a little to help support many of programs that perform a variety of services here in Atmore.
After a successful kickoff luncheon last week, the United Fund drive is off and running. Organizers of the event have been planning for months and now it is our turn to dig into our pockets to support them.
It is amazing how many local organizations would, in all likelihood, come to an end if not for the money provided them through the United Fund. Children's baseball and softball, the 4-H Club, the libraries, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts and the Atmore YMCA are just a few of the groups that will benefit from the donations given.
Chances are that all of us have used the services that are sponsored through the United Fund. Now is the time for us to give just a little back to assure that those programs are still around for others to enjoy and utilize.
I did not grow up in Atmore, but if I had, I would have benefited greatly from the United Fund. As a former member of the 4-H, Boy Scouts, youth baseball and a visitor of my local library, I would have counted on donations to assure me those opportunities.
Besides all of those opportunities provided to us when we were young, there are also those that may be affecting us right now or in our future.
The American Red Cross is probably one of the most worthy organizations of all. The non-profit organization is dedicated to providing a variety of needs throughout the world. Here in Atmore they provide five different programs: the safety program, disaster services, the blood program, 24-hour military service and social services. In addition, they also provide energy assistance through the S.H.A.R.E. program for the elderly, handicapped and disabled. There is no way any of us can predict when we will need the services of the Red Cross.
There is also the Community Service-Agency on Aging program which provides relief to needy families and immediate aid in emergencies to those in need in Atmore.
Other deserving groups will also benefit such as the Alabama Crippled Children's Society, the Southwest Alabama Mental Health and Mental Retardation Board which provides mental health and substance abuse services in Escambia County.
These groups provide us a variety of service year around, and over the next five weeks we should show our appreciation by giving to the United Fund. There is no set amount on how small of a donation they will accept so just give what you can afford.
Even if you have never checked out a library book, played pee wee football or needed blood, it would be difficult to argue that these are not worthy services that make our community a better place to live, work and raise a family.
If we all gave just a little, it would provide a lot for our community. So let's all dig into those pockets and get ready to feel good.