From the CEO
Message from John Franklin
Chief Executive Officer

Welcome to United Way of Morris County, where you can make a difference. Our purpose is to make the world a better place, and we are starting right here, at home. We are changing people's lives and making a difference in our community.

More than ever, we are focused on helping the poor, the disadvantaged, and the victims of circumstance – those people who face insurmountable barriers to independence, access to the American dream, good health, and a safe environment.  Our job is to create access to the kinds of resources that will help those people survive, gain independence, and become contributing participants in society.  They need our help to improve their lives, raise good children, and in some cases survive for a better day.

When I have trouble understanding the importance of helping the poor and disadvantaged in our wealthy community I try to remember how vulnerable they are when disaster strikes.  I also try to remember how vulnerable they are on a daily basis as disaster strikes on an individual level.  Moreover, I try to remember that the fate of all of us is inextricably caught up in the fate of the poor and disadvantaged.  I realize that I cannot isolate myself from poverty, crime, substance abuse, or violence.  If it is all around us, it will affect our lives.

On these Web pages, you will find lots of good information about Morris County and the critical issues we face.

You can also learn about the many ways United Way helps: how we focus our resources to address the most important needs. One way we do this is to fund health and human service programs at our member agencies. Another way is to build strategies and work together with community partners toward sustainable solutions. United Way's ability to convene people, foster initiatives, and build collaborations will allow us to bring many more resources to bear on the critical issues of this county.

With all the great resources at hand — world-class corporations, outstanding public schools, an unparalleled amount of wealth — we have the potential to set an example for the rest of the country. We could lead the way.

Our organization is a place where you can connect and get something done. On our Web pages, you will find many ways to access help for yourself or others. If you want to be one of those people who provide help, you will find opportunities to do so and affect change that will have long-term benefits for the community. Check us out, call us up and come on in. We're ready for you. And we're ready to help you lead the way to change for the better.

Our Promise to the Community:

• We will connect those who can help with those who need help.
• We will work inclusively and collaboratively with our community, building on the strengths of local individuals, businesses, county government, partner agencies and other organizations.
• We will provide active leadership to assess needs, develop creative solutions, and select the most effective and efficient programs to meet those critical needs.
• We will hold ourselves accountable to the community for achieving meaningful and measurable results.