We’ve all experienced it. Unprecedented changes in our world these last couple years. We’ve walked through numerous crises that have left many communities and families vulnerable and challenged to meet their basic needs.
But that’s where the United Way of Washington County is at its best. We’ve built partnerships with a network of nonprofit agencies, so that our communities prosper, and our families have what they need to be strong.
Meet the Hackman family of West Bend. They have six kids and a very busy household.
“Our daughter, Nina, was adopted from China in 2017,” said mom Amy Hackman. "She’s the perfect addition to our family. But she came with a lot of trauma and instability in her life. We learned from her first year of school in the states that routine and schedules were essential to help her thrive."
“When you’re a parent, there isn’t anything you wouldn’t do for your child when they are struggling or they’re hurting,” said dad Adam Hackman. “Nina had a strong need for structure and routine. That’s how she developed a sense of security; through consistent activities and expectations. That’s what makes the difference for her. Not only were routine and structure important for her, but being around other kids was so important as well.”
School provided that routine and security, but summers were altogether different. The Hackman’s didn’t have a way to give Nina the day-to-day structure that she was accustomed to. They desperately needed to find a summer solution. But with a big family, they didn’t have extra money for most summer programs. Adam was familiar with the Boys & Girls club though work and outside involvement and they turned there for help.
“The Boys & Girls Club was just what we needed,” said Adam. “I don’t know where we would be without their summer program. It gave Nina community, the consistency she needed, kids to be around, and it gave our family peace of mind.”
Due to Nina’s involvement with Boys & Girls Club, their whole family got involved with the organization. They would volunteer and attend events at Boys & Girls Club and other United Way partner agencies like Interfaith Caregivers and Friends, Inc.
According to Amy, their family always believed it was important to give to nonprofit organizations, but she thought the United Way was only funded by large corporations.
“I’ve come to realize the United Way welcomes modest donations from individuals and families like us,” said Amy. “Our family has been on the receiving end of generous giving that flowed from the United Way to the Boys & Girls Club and we can give back to United Way, too. We’ve learned that every little bit helps.”
The Hackman Family moved back to Washington County because of the great family environment it provides.
“We’re staying here because of the connections we’ve made through wonderful organizations like Boys & Girls Club,” said Adam. “We are grateful for the help we’ve received through these nonprofits and we will continue to support the work they’re doing because they’re making a difference, one family at a time.”