Lenawee Cares campaign kickoff offers chance to help neighbors who need a hand up

As summer starts to come to an end and the school year ramps up, it’s an exciting time for Lenawee Cares.

We will be kicking off our 2022-23 giving campaign from 7:30 to 9:30 a.m. Sept. 9 at the Lenawee Intermediate School District Tech Center, 1372 N. Main St. in Adrian. This is a social event with breakfast served. Come join us to learn more about Lenawee Cares and how you can support and get involved.

While the kickoff is an exciting time, it is important to remember why we do the campaign — to help our fellow residents of Lenawee County who need a hand up. Planning for 2023, we challenge each of you to continue to give back with time and dollars to our Lenawee County community. As you plan, think about these things: how many of you decided to eat a meal, had a car to drive to work, had safe and affordable child care, are able to earn a livable wage? We know that many of us may take these things for granted; unfortunately that is not the case for many of our friends or neighbors here in Lenawee County.

Remember no dollar amount is too small — every dollar counts! We believe that by giving through Lenawee Cares our dollars go to the people who need them the most. There is power in combining our dollars to make the most impact in our community. Remember that 100% of what you give stays in Lenawee County.

If you work for a company that already runs a campaign, watch for notices on how you can give. If you own a business that does not currently run a campaign, we have a great tool kit to make it easy for you to begin allowing you and your employees to give. If you are an individual who is self-employed or retired, it is very easy for you to donate through our website, www.lenaweecommunityfoundation.com, or by calling 517-263-4696.

It is important to remember: Lenawee Cares — Permanent change starts with us.

Janis Montalvo is a Tecumseh resident, community volunteer, owner and associate broker with Living in Lenawee Realty. Montalvo also volunteers with many local organizations and is the campaign chair for the Lenawee Cares campaign. To reach Janis, email her at janis@montalvoteam.com.

Jacob Cooper is an Adrian resident, community volunteer and student at Siena Heights University. Cooper is also an active volunteer with many local organizations and is serving as the co-campaign chair for the Lenawee Cares campaign. To reach Jacob, email him at cooperkjake@gmail.com.