It’s Fall, Y’all! Updates from Your United Way of Mat-Su

Contributed by Michele Harmeling

Palmer Amoosement Park Improvements Continue!

Special thanks to our friends at APR Rentals-Palmer for the donation of a leaf blower and weed whackers to help us improve the grounds.

We spent the day painting, raking and cleaning up trash around the Amoosement Park. While it's looking better and better, there is still much work to be done to revitalize this beloved Palmer playground.

We especially appreciate the cooperation of all the parents and kids who arrived to play while we were painting! Thanks for being mindful of "wet paint”!

Sincere thanks to the following volunteers:

•   Brenda & Ryan Shelden

•   Madeline & Xavier Ortiz

•   Natalie Tucker

•   Marvilie Shaver

We have plenty of extra paint and plan to schedule other workdays at the Amoosement Park as weather allows! Other parks projects will take place at Hagen Park in Palmer and select Wasilla parks in the near future. If you are interested in updates and additional park improvement volunteer opportunities, register via our website at unitedwaymatsu.org/volunteer.

Community Impact Grantees Announced

•   American Red Cross | Disaster Assistance, Training & Response

•   Boys & Girls Club | Mat-Su Clubs

•   CCS Early Learning | Early Head Start & Head Start Programs

•   Kabayan Club of Mat-Su Inc. | Homemade Face Mask Covering Project

•   Mat-Su Senior Services | Core Programs

•   Onward & Upward | Health & Wellness Education & SEL Support for Youth Suicide Prevention

•   Set Free Alaska | Adult & Children's Program Curriculum & Supplies

•   Sunshine Community Health Center | Student Counseling Services

•   Sunshine Transit | Transportation in the Upper Su

•   The Children's Place | Medical Exams, Copays & Deductibles

•   Valley Charities | Lift Gate Replacement

•   Wasilla Area Seniors | Senior Nutrition Program

Congratulations to these local agencies! They have been selected to receive support through the UWMS Community Impact fund, in recognition of projects contributing to a robust, innovative and inclusive health and social services sector in the Mat-Su.

Did You Know? You may designate your donation to United Way of Mat-Su to the focus area of your choice, or to our Community Impact Fund. Find out more by calling Jason Ortiz, Development Director at 745-5822 or email give@unitedwaymatsu.org.

United Way of Mat-Su Seeks Board Candidates

Do you have a passion for community, the desire to make a change, and a heart for giving? We hope you’ll consider joining the UWMS team as a member of our Board of Directors!

UWMS is recruiting for philanthropy-minded individuals to fill several open positions as members of our Board. You’ll work with other members of the Mat-Su community on vital issues and events like Stuff the Bus and Project Homeless Connect.

For more information, and to apply, please contact Stephanie Allen at 745-5821 or sallen@unitedwaymatsu.org.

Fall Drug Take Back Day

Saturday, October 24th, from 10am-3pm.

Valley residents may bring unused and expired drugs and medications to either Fred Meyer pharmacy location (Wasilla and Palmer) for safe disposal. Talkeetna area residents may visit the Talkeetna Sunshine Community Health Clinic. This event runs from 10AM-3PM at all locations. Help prevent misuse of prescription drugs and keep our community safe by marking your calendar for Drug Take-Back Day! (Please note that we cannot accept medical sharps or medical waste.)

CLOTH MASKS are available in our offices in large quantities. If your agency is in need, please call 745-5824 or email admin@unitedwaymatsu.org. UWMS Resource Guides and Rx Discount Cards are available for pickup as well.