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How Are We Doing?

March 14th, 2018

We say it often to our donors, volunteers, neighbors and other supporters: UCOM only works because of YOU.

I often use this space to tell you what we are doing. Stories, ministry updates, works in progress, our attitudes and philosophy are all things that are meant to keep you, our most important mentors, in the loop.

This month’s blog posting is different. This one YOU write. Please scroll to the comments section and you tell me your honest responses to some of these questions.

How are we doing? Is UCOM’s emphasis where you want it to be? Do we treat people well? Are we on the right track when we emphasize nutritious eating, healthy activity, and coaching for people who are preparing to succeed in careers or trades? Are we using the right programs to help people to assess their strengths and to fulfill their dreams? What are we doing right and what should we be doing differently to help to create healthier, happier, and more economically stable communities?

I hope to hear from UCOM staff, volunteers, program participants and other interested parties. If you shy away from a public forum, you can still help me to hear your voice by addressing me at Bruce.Roller@UCOMgr.org.

Thank you for taking to time to help UCOM to be more relevant, more committed and more focused on our mission.

 

Comments

#1 Linda Looney said:

Healthy eating education is fine. I think you need to keep in mind that a good share of your clients are members of Latinx communities. Many prefer dietary staples such as beans and rice to go with other vegetables. Children need carbs to run and play. To practically ban cookies from the pantry shelves is not good either. All things in moderation should be the motto. Of course we don’t (shouldn’t) make a meal of sweets, but life is pretty bleak without an occasional cookie!

#2 Kent County ENTF said:

Share your ideas to build a stronger community for all our neighbors.

#3 Bruce Roller said:

Linda, we do have a good inventory of dried beans and rice—healthful, nutritious, and popular foods that our neighbors love to take. Cookies and other sweets we have in limited supply on our “treats” shelf. We encougage fresh fruits for sweet treats. How much sweet treats is too much or too little in proportion to other foods on our shelves? Thank you for commenting and for your generous volunteer time and financial support of UCOM’s mission.

#4 Bruce Roller said:

Thanks for your suggestion, Kent Vounty ENTF. UCOM will continue to share our ideas though ENTF, Access of West MI, ESC and United Way Partners. What are some other avenues for sharing?

#5 NancyReenders said:

I just read the UCOM newsletter with interest and appreciation for the very good work that UCOM continues to do. Having been introduced to UCOM 18 years ago, I was impressed from the start at the measure of respect in its programs and people. Now when I read of the same goals played out in new and innovative community connections, I'm grateful for the ministry that is still making a difference. Well done and God bless you.
Nancy Reenders

#6 Bruce Roller said:

Thank you, Nancy. This means so much especially coming from you after our years of working together before you retired from Access of West Michigan.

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