Not all stories have a happy ending; some stories indeed have unhappy or even tragic endings. Stories involve people and the unfolding of their lives day by day, year by year. For many people in our community the story of their lives up to this point is one characterized by great need. The issues of poverty, homelessness, addiction, unemployment, inadequate healthcare, abuse and others are "issues" for society but are the harsh lived experience of too many of our brothers and sisters. Their life stories are not fated, however, to have unhappy endings.

     Americans traditionally have been a generous and compassionate people, and this generosity and compassion is manifested in part through the work of countless local non-profit agencies. These agencies provide those services that will help improve the lives of those in need. We can contribute our care, compassion, concern and solidarity. We can volunteer personally for those causes and agencies in which we deeply believe. We can also contribute the financial resources, which will ensure that these agencies can keep their doors open for another year of service.

     I have asked Fr. Ed Udovic, C.M., and the University Mission Office to coordinate this year's university-wide United Way campaign. This year's campaign will run during the month of January.

     Unfortunately, over the last several years the level of giving by the university community has declined. This year, I would ask that we join together not only to reverse this trend, but set a new record for DePaul giving. Our goals are ambitious, a personal response from 100% of the faculty and staff and a total contribution of at least $30,000.00 from the university community. Please help us to meet this goal for the sake of helping those in need to "write a happy ending."

     Thank you for your generous support of our 2000 Campaign!