Joe Burger Chooses United Way of Lake County

Donors and volunteers shared with us why they choose to give to United Way of Lake County. We hope their stories motivate you to continue (or begin!) to choose United Way when you are asked to participate in your workplace giving campaign.

How did your involvement with United Way begin?

I can remember as a kid the great United Way commercials featuring various NFL players. I remember the player’s stories and was always moved by their ties to their local communities. It really made an impression on me. When I graduated from college and began my career, my first employer was a big United Way supporter so I became involved very early on and have now been a supporter for over 30 years.

What inspired you to become involved with United Way of Lake County?

One of the reasons I support United Way is I believe in giving back to my local community. Keeping Lake County strong is important for my company and our employees. We all want to live in a thriving community, but that takes work and that’s where I feel United Way is on the right track, especially with their focus on early education.

Why do you feel early education is key?

Over the years, I’ve worked with several local organizations that help students. One example is Cristo Rey St. Martin College Prep School. Our company employs several interns from that high school. Many of these students would not have been prepared for opportunities that came their way without the benefit of quality early learning programs, like the ones that United Way offers. You cannot start too early and the payoff down the road can be huge!

I’ve seen the results United Way has achieved, especially in preparing at-risk children for kindergarten. It’s amazing and it’s absolutely necessary work.

Why do you think it is important to support United Way’s mission?

United Way’s focus on children, who may not have many advantages, is comprehensive in my eyes. I believe their approach of looking at the child and their family is smart. For a child to thrive in school, they need a stable home life. And learning about 211, I can see how this new service will help families who are struggling. There are so many resources for families in Lake County, and being connected to the right resource at the right time can help eliminate stress for families. I know it is a service we will share with our own team here at Snap-on Credit.

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