To the editor:

As volunteers began to gather before the dawn of the day, the darkness and the calm surroundings were drastically different from the color explosions and vibrant music that happened shortly after.

There were moments when the only thing visible was thick clouds of color being thrown in the air by hundreds. These individuals chose to make an investment by changing the tapestry of our community. It has been proven many times that together we have a significant opportunity to create a brighter future for everyone.

Together, we can get results and accomplish far more than any single person can on his or her own. These are results that ripple out to the community as a whole. Even though the clouds of color are gone, the United Way of West Central Mississippi encourages those who participated to energize others in our community by sharing your true colors that can never be washed away. 

We would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone for making this day a success for our partner agencies and for our community. Without the support of our sponsors, hundreds of volunteers, in-kind donations and the participants, this dynamic campaign kick-off would not be possible.

The City of Vicksburg was involved in every aspect of this community wide celebration. Since our run is unique in nature, it takes the support of many individuals who are willing to vividly sacrifice countless hours. The True Color Run is a true testament of our entire community LIVING UNITED.  So many individuals stepped out of their comfort zones to support their ‘cause’ through #KicksforaCause.

As our community celebrates the recent Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Culture of Health Prize, the personal triumphs experienced during the True Color Run magnified the reasons we were chosen as a prizewinner.

Watching the future of our community line up for the Fun Run was a very memorable moment for those of us employed at the United Way of West Central Mississippi. Their smiles, excitement and energy was electrifying. This is our next generation of Hand Raisers and Game Changers.

The True Color Run kicked off our 2017 Campaign and you can be a part of it. Call the United Way office or visit our website to see how you can advance the common good in our community.

Michele Connelly

Executive Director

United Way of West Central Mississippi