In The News
Success By 6 initiative works to help kids excel
As I settle into my role as United Way of Lane County’s executive director, I have had the opportunity to learn about and reflect on Lane County’s long-standing commitment to young children and the work ahead. April is Child Abuse Prevention Awareness month, and I am impressed by the community’s history of collaboration and success, as well as the importance of the work yet to be done. As a Head Start graduate myself, I wholeheartedly believe in the value of high-quality, community-based programs to help all children get the best possible start in life.
Oregon Child Poverty Up 12 Percent
A recent study shows more than 20 percent of Oregon children live in poverty. The rate grew 12 percent in 2011, and the numbers in Lane County show an even bigger problem. The child poverty rate in Lane County is at 23.4 percent -- higher than the statewide number. But even in Lane County alone, the current number is 32 percent worse than it was in 2010. While there are a number of factors that could have affected this, it seems to come back to a lack of funding for assistance.
Therapist honored as top volunteer
Dianne Watson said her body had a reaction of its own Thursday when she was named “Volunteer of the Year” at an annual award luncheon hosted by United Way of Lane County and The Register-Guard. “My knees are like jelly,” she said. “Not that they were that sturdy to begin with.” Watson, a 73-year-old Eugene resident, was one of many local residents honored at the Hilton Eugene for their volunteer efforts to improve the communities they live in.
Tykeson honored for philanthropy, community service
The same quote was echoed throughout the evening Wednesday to describe Don Tykeson — this year’s recipient of United Way of Lane County’s Alton F. Baker Award. “Make no little plans, they have no magic to stir men’s blood and probably themselves will not be realized,” reads the quote — from Chicago architect Daniel Burnham. “Make big plans; aim higher in hope and work.”
KLCC News at Noon
The February 13th podcast includes a conversation with Noreen Dunnels, the new CEO of United Way of Lane County.
