United Way seeks panel participants

The United Way invites area residents to serve on citizen review panels to determine how to allocate money to meet the needs of our community.

The citizen review brings together people from all walks of life and backgrounds to share their views, opinions and experiences about community services and the changing needs of the Flathead Valley. Panelists will recommend how money should be allocated among United Way Agencies.

The agency is looking for 200 people (25 a panel) who will help determine how United Way dollars will be distributed in 2008. The panels will be held March 8 and 9, and March 15 and 16. A one-hour orientation will be provided for new participants.

Participants will learn more about the agencies and services the United Way supports, ways to get involved in our community, and resources available in the communities served by United Way. They will also see firsthand the effect that United Way member agencies have on individuals and families.

The time commitment will be attending a one-day (four hours) panel, as well as the one-hour orientation, which will be on a separate day. Participants will also be asked to complete a communitywide survey.

Participants may list preferences for times and dates, and the subject area of the agencies reviewed. Topics are Early Childhood Resources, Promoting Self Sufficiency, Meeting Basic Needs, Building Healthy Communities, Youth Intervention Services, Senior and Adult Resources, Youth Development Services and Youth Prevention Services.

Corporate leaders, business people, professionals and the community at large are welcome to participate in making critical decisions for 2007-'08 and ultimately setting the goal for the fall 2007 United Way campaign.

Registration forms are available from the United Way office. Call 752-7266. The registration deadline is Feb. 23.