AN ICON OPINION - No, it’s not the end of Bluffton as we know it.
You’ve read that the Bluffton-Beaverdam-Richland Township United Way board decided to join the United Way of Greater Lima.
Before we hear, “How can this happen!” please know that it is not the end of Bluffton as we now know it.
While our own United Way is a worthy safety net covering our township, we’ve continually failed to support it 100 percent with its meager $26,000 annual budget.
In February, a story posted on the Icon stated “United Way at a crossroads.” No one responded to that story with an: “Okay, let’s jump in and fix this.” You had your chance then. Actually, you’ve had your chance for several years before this. No one responded.
So, perhaps there's a better alternative.
By joining Lima we understand that our corner of the county won’t get lost in the shuffle. We’ve been assured that our funding requests will be met. That's our best best alternative.
As an additional thought, Bluffton does have several safety nets already in place.
These include, and are not limited to:
Bluffton Community Assistance Program, Senior Citizens Center, AA Open Discussion Group, Bereavement Support Group, Care Giver Support Group, Al-Anon, PTO, Cancer Support Group, Lions Club, SHANNON Service Club, six mainline denomination churches, Campus Life and other groups.
Each of the above serves a unique cliental. Of course, each group has budgetary needs. However, as we’ve observed local supporters step up to the plate when these groups ask for help.
As a small village, we are in a unique position as we go about our daily lives and business and at the same time, keep our own self-constructed safety nets in place.
We are sorry the local United Way didn’t work out. But, the Icon believes that by joining the Greater Lima organization is it the best alternative for all of us.
