Charley

I want to tell you about a recent event that moved us deeply.  It’s about one of our supporters named Charley.

Charley is over 90 years old, and is still living at home, taking care of himself, driving his late model Buick, and trying to stay as active as he can, despite the aches, pains and limitations brought on by his advanced years.

Charley heard us talk on the radio about how people in Jackson County are suffering right now, many for the first time, and in greater numbers than we’ve seen in years.  He decided that he could do something to help, and got in his big white Buick and headed down to our United Way offices.

We saw Charley pull in the parking lot, and admired his determination as he struggled out of the car, pulling himself along, his strong hands grasping the roof line, guiding his unsteady legs beneath him.  He pulled his walker out of the trunk, and then slowly crossed the parking lot to the table where we were collecting donations.

He wore a baseball hat that proudly honored his service to our country in World War II.  And he spoke to us about all the changes he’d witnessed in Jackson County over his long life.  Sadly, a lot of our conversation was about how alone he felt, because he’d simply outlived all his friends and family.

Charley paused in our conversation, and reached into his shirt pocket.   “Please take this, and put it to good use”, he said quietly.  He pulled out a check.  We were stunned to see that it was for a thousand dollars. 

We looked up in surprise, and started to express our thanks when Charley interrupted.  “There are people who need this so much more than I do.  Take it.  And thank you for making it possible for me to help out”.

We shook hands and offered to help him back to his car, but he waved us off, and said, “I can manage”.  Within a few minutes he was driving south on North Jackson Street, heading toward downtown.

We can all help someone who “needs it much more than we do”, by making a donation, volunteering our time or speaking out for those less fortunate.  Please make your contribution now, and join your neighbors like Charley who are providing opportunities for a better life for Jackson’s families in need.  

Joe Lathrop
President, Board of Directors
United Way of Jackson County

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