Tag: Lake County

22 Jan

Women United Spotlight: Tami Pilot-Matias

by Jennifer StromCategories: News, WU Member Spotlights

Welcome to Women United’s Member Spotlight series. This week, join us in learning more about Tami Pilot-Matias and her connection to Women United. If you would like to learn more about Women United and the work they do, click here.

What year did you join Women United?

2018

What is your professional background?

I retired in September 2018 after a 35 year career at Abbott/AbbVie as a research scientist and director of a research group.

What originally inspired you to be a part of Women United?

I have been a long-time contributor to United Way of Lake County, as I believe it is important to support my local community. I am particularly interested in Women United’s focus on early childhood education, and now that I have retired and have more free time it seemed like the time was right.

What does early childhood education mean to you?

My mother spent her career in early childhood education, first as a kindergarten teacher and later as a teacher and administrator at the community college level, training future teachers and child care providers. I learned from her how important it is to reach vulnerable children as early as possible.

What has surprised you most about being involved in Women United?

The unselfish passion and commitment that these women bring to the table.

What does Women United mean to you?

 I have only recently joined, but I look forward to the opportunity to make connections with like-minded women who want to make a meaningful difference in our community.

What would you say to a woman who is interested in becoming a member of Women United?

Come to a meeting and meet some of the members – you will find them to be friendly, welcoming, and committed to doing good things.

(Note: see below to learn more about Women United’s next informational meeting.)

Women United has periodic informational meetings, called Wine & Learns. The next Wine & Learn is on January 31, 2019 from 6-7:30 PM in Libertyville at a member’s home. Interested? Contact Janice Scarbalis at janice.scarbalis@uwlakeco.org.

Learn more about Women United here.

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14 Jan

Steve Carlson Joins United Way of Lake County’s Board

by Jennifer StromCategories: Article Mentions

Recently, United Way of Lake County welcomed several new members to their Board of Directors.  We will be highlighting each of the new members on our blog.  Next up, hear from Steve Carlson, Lake County Board Member, about why he decided to join the UWLC Board.

What inspired you to join United Way of Lake County’s Board of Directors?

I’ve always been aware of United Way but recently I’ve become much more aware of their role in Lake County. I initially became involved because of my interest in 211, a free and confidential helpline that provides access to essential services, which will become available in Lake County in Spring 2019. Working to bring 211 to Lake County, I’ve become acquainted with the many remarkable, dedicated people in the United Way organization.

As a new Board member, I am looking forward to getting to know my fellow Members and the overall mission and workings of the agency. It is an honor to be asked to serve with so many extraordinary people in an extraordinary organization.

About Steve:

Steve Carlson is District 7 Commissioner for the Lake County Board. He has volunteered with United Way of Lake County since 2012 as a Board Member for the Lake County Emergency Food and Shelter Program (EFSP) where he has helped to review local needs and allocate funding to high capacity agencies proven to align with local efforts to prevent and decrease homelessness and hunger. Steve’s deep commitment to our community is showcased in his many volunteer roles throughout the county, including involvement with the Lake County Health and Community Services Committee, Lake County Forest Preserve, Lake County Board of Health, Lake County Coordinated Transportation Services Committee, and many more.

 

If you’d like to support United Way’s work in the Lake County community, you can make a gift by clicking the button below.

14 Jan

Paul Lotharius Joins United Way of Lake County’s Board

by Jennifer StromCategories: Article Mentions

Recently, United Way of Lake County welcomed several new members to their Board of Directors.  We will be highlighting each of the new members on our blog.  Next up, hear from Paul Lotharius, President and CEO of HealthFitness at Trustmark Companies, about why he decided to join the Board.

What inspired you to join United Way of Lake County’s Board of Directors?

My family and I are so fortunate for what we have in life, and I feel a need to give back and help others. I think there is also an element of connectedness that is important. I am so isolated from the rest of the world in my normal daily routines. For me, joining the UWLC Board is a way of feeling connected to, and a part of, something that is bigger than just me and my family. It’s a way to touch someone else’s life in some small way that I would never be able to touch otherwise.

What aspect of United Way’s work do you connect most with and why?

My family tends to focus our giving on education-related services. We believe strongly that a good education is the surest path to long-term success. Because of that, I can relate strongly with the early learning focus of UWLC. I think programs like Success By 6 are vitally important in our community.

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

I’ve had the opportunity to work with the local United Way leadership here in Lake County, and I see how passionate and committed they are to our community. They are on the front lines of serving the needs of those who truly are struggling. I trust United Way’s leadership team to identify where to focus discretionary dollars to provide the most help.

 

If you’d like to support United Way’s work in the Lake County community, you can make a gift by clicking the button below.

20 Dec

Chuck & Teresa Bartels’ Story

by Jennifer StromCategories: uncategorized

“We have been loyal contributors to United Way of Lake County for more than 35 years. That’s because we believe that United Way provides a table around which our community can gather to voluntarily address challenges and advance the common good in the basic building blocks of a good life: education, income and health. Through a planned gift we can support United Way to continue building a strong community for our grandchildren and generations to come.”

– Chuck and Teresa Bartels

20 Dec

Nancy Coolley’s Story

by Jennifer StromCategories: uncategorized

When Nancy Coolley retired from Hewitt Associates in 2002 she wanted to find an organization where she could contribute in a meaningful way and invest her time and money towards making a real difference for the community.

“I looked around, interviewed organizations and was greatly impressed with what I heard about the focus and direction at United Way of Lake County.

You can’t help everyone, but you can help an organization where you know the money will be wisely spent, and will most likely make a difference where I live.”

Over the last 16 years, Nancy’s dedication to United Way of Lake County (UWLC) has remained strong and continues to grow. Nancy started volunteering as a marketing advisor, served on the allocations committee and was involved in the county-wide effort to determine education as a focus for UWLC’s mission. Nancy also served on an early 2-1-1 committee and helped to craft a five year strategic plan for UWLC. She participated as a member of United Way of Illinois, and served a year as the Board Chair. And, Nancy has been leader on UWLC’s Board and Executive Board for multiple terms.

“The more I learned, the more engaged I became, and I really felt my business skills, experiences and talent were being put to good use.”

A few years ago, Nancy decided she wanted to ensure that the work she had invested in, for so many years, would continue long term.

“When I revised my will recently the thought occurred to me that I have invested so much time and money in United Way of Lake County while alive, I should care about the continuation of the great programs, which are truly making a difference, when I’m gone. It was one of those moments when the light bulb goes on.”

Nancy’s generous donations, of both time and money, have led to measurable improvements for children and families in need in Lake County. And, through Nancy’s planned gift, she will leave a lasting legacy that will continue to support future generations.

“The way I see it, giving small amounts won’t make an impact, and won’t help anyone remember me. We each need one focus where your participation makes a difference.

If you are giving now, and have done so for years, you have made an investment. You should consider one last gift to continue that work of your investment after you are gone.”

17 Dec

Staff Spotlight: Bobbi Selvik

by Jennifer StromCategories: News, Staff Spotlights

This Familiar Faces Friday, we are introducing Bobbi Selvik. Bobbi is our Manager of Community Engagement. Learn more about her role, what she likes to do in her free time, and how she connects to the programs we offer at United Way of Lake County (UWLC)!

When did you start working at UWLC?

I started working at United Way on November 5, 2018.

What is your title and role?

I am the Manager of Community Engagement. I am responsible for providing year-round volunteer engagement opportunities as well as the implementation of the Young Leaders United group.

What made you want to be a part of this organization?

I’ve worked with children my whole life, and I’ve worked and volunteered in nonprofit settings most of my adult career. Celebrating children’s success is so important to me. UWLC takes on the incredible challenge of investing time and resources towards building that strong foundation so every child can feel success. That’s pretty amazing!

Which of UWLC’s programs do you connect to most and why?

I think all of the UWLC programs are valuable. It’s hard to choose just one. The initiative that I’m drawn to most is the upcoming 211 helpline. With 24 hour access, families will find the assistance and intervention they need to feel safe and empowered. This will help so many families in Lake County.

What is your favorite part of your job here?

One of my favorite things about the job here are the people. I’ve never encountered a more dedicated, encouraging, and friendly group of people before coming to work here. With an incredible group such as this, there is no limit to what we can accomplish together.

When you are not at work, what kinds of things do you do with your time?

When not at work, I love to cook. I enjoy making and baking for my family. They may not enjoy eating my creations but I enjoy the process anyway. Girl Scouts is also a huge passion for me. My troop graduated from high school last year after 13 years of scouting, but I am still a Girl Scout leader and love to find ways to engage the troop both near and far from home.

Thank you for joining us for another Familiar Faces Friday. To meet more people on staff, click here.

16 Nov

Women United Spotlight: Lynn Morrissey

by Jennifer StromCategories: News, WU Member Spotlights

Welcome to Women United’s Member Spotlight series. This week, join us in learning more about Lynn Morrissey and her connection to Women United. If you would like to learn more about Women United and the work they do, click here.

What year did you join Women United?

2018

What is your professional background?

Recently retired from AbbVie (Information Technology).

What originally inspired you to be a part of Women United?

Over the years, I’ve volunteered on United Way Allocation Panels to help review programs and recommend funding and have learned a lot about the many urgent needs in Lake County. I truly believe that Women United’s efforts to improve childhood literacy will help set vulnerable kids on the path to reach their full potential and help to reverse the cycle of poverty in Lake County.

What does early childhood education mean to you?

Little kids are innately so smart. They soak up information like sponges. They are primed to take advantage of learning opportunities and develop the skills they need to succeed. Early education programs give them the confidence to know that they are smart and will do well. Kids without these opportunities often have challenges keeping up with the rest of the class and tragically may see themselves as less able than their peers which can set them up for a lifetime of underachievement. This doesn’t need to happen. Early education is an effective intervention.

What has surprised you most about being involved in Women United?

As a new retiree, I’m so used to being “heads down” to address work and home responsibilities. It’s been awesome to have the time to lift my head up and see that there are so many wonderful women in Lake County making a difference in children’s lives. It’s been a great experience meeting and working with this group.

What does Women United mean to you?

It’s a fun and meaningful way to give back.

What would you say to a woman who is interested in becoming a member of Women United?

Don’t hesitate. There are many rewarding and fun opportunities for social and philanthropic activities. You can adjust your commitment based on interest and available time.

Women United has periodic informational meetings, called Wine & Learns. The next Wine & Learn is on December 5, 2018 from 6-7:30 PM in Libertyville at a member’s home. Interested? Contact Diana Nielander at diana.nielander@uwlakeco.org.

Learn more about Women United here.

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09 Nov

Staff Spotlight: Shareny Mota

by Jennifer StromCategories: News, Staff Spotlights

This Familiar Faces Friday, we are introducing Shareny Mota. Shareny is the Initiative Coordinator for our Success By 6 Program. Learn more about her role, what she likes to do in her free time, and how she connects to the programs we offer at United Way of Lake County (UWLC)!

When did you start working at UWLC?

I started working at United Way of Lake County in September 2018.

What is your title and role?

My title is Success By 6 Initiative Coordinator. My role is to collaborate with the community and encourage healthy child development and readiness through our early learning programs.

What made you want to be a part of this organization?

Throughout my undergraduate career at Northern Illinois University, I was fortunate to have mentors and role models help me accomplish my dreams of obtaining a college degree. Without those key people, it would have been extremely difficult to navigate the higher education system, especially as a first generation college student. When I graduated, I knew I wanted to join an organization that gave back to their community by offering tools and resources to be successful, just how my mentors had done so for me. United Way offers that and more, and I could not have made a better choice in joining this organization.

Which of UWLC’s programs do you connect to most and why?

Although United Way of Lake County offers various amazing and empowering programs, I connect with Success By 6’s Better Together program the most. It gives me an opportunity to be creative and encourage parents to be involved in their child’s education and development.

What is your favorite part of your job here?

My favorite part of my job is that I get to learn and grow not only as an employee but also as a person. Every day I learn something new, whether it is about one of the families I work with or my colleagues. I always look forward to volunteering and working closely with other departments other than my own.

When you are not at work, what kinds of things do you do with your time?

Some of my hobbies include exploring new restaurants and outdoor parks. One day I would like to be able to say that I have traveled to all 50 states. So far, I have only traveled to eight so I have a long way to go.

Thank you for joining us for another Familiar Faces Friday. To meet more people on staff, click here.

26 Oct

Women United Spotlight: Christine Rich

by Jennifer StromCategories: News, WU Member Spotlights

Welcome to Women United’s Member Spotlight series. This week, join us in learning more about Christine Rich and her connection to Women United. If you would like to learn more about Women United and the work they do, click here.

What year did you join Women United?

2018

What is your professional background?

I graduated from University of Iowa with a Liberal Arts degree and for many years worked in the computer industry selling hardware. For five years after my children started school, I worked at Sedol as a teaching assistant. I am currently a RE/MAX Showcase Real Estate Agent.

What originally inspired you to be a part of Women United?

I felt a need to volunteer more of my time to local organizations. After looking into a few different organizations, I attended a Wine and Learn to find out more about Women United. I was very impressed with the women and their commitment to the organization.

What does early childhood education mean to you?

Early childhood education is crucial to a children’s development. My youngest son, Matthew, who is currently a sophomore in high school, has struggled with reading and dyslexia since kindergarten. After a few years of school, we noticed that Matthew had started to fall behind in reading and comprehension. Unfortunately he wasn’t getting the help he needed in the school system. We turned to a few different reading specialists and private tutors during the elementary and intermediate school years to get him the support he needed. Sadly, I was told by some of Matt’s teachers that he was lazy and didn’t want to learn. I knew the problem wasn’t that Matthew was lazy, but rather that he just couldn’t read. In 7th grade, a friend gave me some great advice. She told me to have Matthew diagnosed by a neurologist. Matthew was diagnosed with Dyslexia and other reading disabilities. With a lot of research and help from the community, I found a wonderful program out of Lake Zurich for children with reading disorders and dyslexia. We started to see results with Matthew and his progress with reading. We also found an amazing tutor in Gurnee who currently works with Matthew. Reading is very important. I want to be able to help other children with similar reading issues succeed in school. Matthew still struggles everyday with this disability, but he’s a fighter, and with the tools he has learned, I know that he will do well.

What has surprised you most about being involved in Women United?

I love the purpose, work and dedication of the women I have met in this organization.

What does Women United mean to you?

Women United means a group of women who are working together for a common result. I’m proud to be a part of this organization and hope in the future to meet all of you and find more time to volunteer with such a wonderful organization.

What would you say to a woman who is interested in becoming a member of Women United?

There something for everyone in this organization. It’s a great way to volunteer for a wonderful cause. Also, it’s a great way to meet other women in social opportunities.

Women United has periodic informational meetings, called Wine & Learns. The next Wine & Learn is on December 5, 2018 from 6-7:30 PM in Libertyville at a member’s home. Interested? Contact Diana Nielander at diana.nielander@uwlakeco.org.

Learn more about Women United here.

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23 Oct

Lori Suddick Joins United Way of Lake County’s Board

by Jennifer StromCategories: Article Mentions

Recently, United Way of Lake County welcomed seven new members to their Board of Directors.  We will be highlighting each of the new members on our blog.  Next up, hear from Lori Suddick, President at College of Lake County, about why she decided to join the Board.

What inspired you to join United Way of Lake County’s Board of Directors?

I have had opportunities to serve on boards in other communities I have previously lived and worked. I find such value in learning the needs in the community, understanding the resources available, and networking with other professionals. I believe being on the Board of Directors will offer me great insight as I learn about Lake County so that I can find mutually beneficial and collaborative ways to connect my organization to the outcomes of United Way.

What aspect of United Way’s work do you connect most with and why?

I most connect with the community impact focus on breaking the cycle of poverty. I firmly believe educational attainment is a means to breaking the cycle of poverty and have witnessed this first-hand through my own lived experience. United Way is a great example of an organization that links action with compassion to support improved outcomes for children and families. I want to contribute my time to helping others and I think engaging in community impact work through United Way is a great way to do so.

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

United Ways mission is a worthwhile endeavor that makes our communities strong by focusing on improved achievement for children and families. I look forward to LIVING UNITED in Lake County.

If you’d like to make a gift to United Way, click the button below.

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