“One of the things they said that struck me is … sometimes it feels overwhelming to find the best way to make a positive impact in charitable giving. They found that United Way did the homework for them by finding the organizations that really fit the needs that they were wanting to meet in the community. And they knew that the organizations had been vetted and that by giving to United Way, they were ensuring that their dollars had the greatest impact.”

With a background in finance, she said that thinking really spoke to her.

“Giving to United Way, I feel like my dollars can go further.”

She decided she wanted to be even more involved with United Way and joined the Patricia Hart Society, a giving group that provides opportunities for members to lend their time, talents and energy to create lasting impact in their community. The Patricia Hart Society was founded by Williamson County resident Patricia Hart who is an active community volunteer, philanthropist and advocate.

“Smaller groups like Patricia Hart, give us an opportunity to start small and grow our involvement and learn about the organization in a more personal way. And that’s what led me to Patricia Hart. It’s really important to make that connection and feel a part of your community. United Way has given me the opportunity to really feel like I understand how the community works and that I’m not just seeing my small part of it—I don’t just see the school that my children go to or my job every day. I’m really seeing the lives of others and the way they are impacted in Middle Tennessee.”