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The thoughts and opinions expressed in this blog’s posts are thoses of the individual blogger's alone and are not representative, unless clearly and unequivocally stated, of those of United Way of Greater New Haven or United Way Worldwide.

Blogger: Amy Townsley

Amy Townsley joined the United Way of Greater New Haven as the Community Impact Coordinator and is very excited to work with the community in identifying community issues, goals, and strategies to improve people’s lives. Amy is a graduate of Hamilton College and earned her Master of Arts degree in International Relations from Boston University. Previously, Amy enjoyed her work as a Constituent Liaison for a Member of Congress in Connecticut.

She also was an ESL volunteer with Literacy Volunteers of Central Connecticut. Amy is eager to become involved in all that the Greater New...

Better Days

Submitted by Amy Townsley on December 30, 2009 - 5:25pm

A newspaper headline decries “New Year, Same Old Problems” and tells the public what they already know as well as begs the question: will we ever get it right or will barriers to peace, basic needs, and equality always exist?

Popular pessimism whispers that the same old problems are here to stay. My hope, however, is that this new year we remember the chance for better days is not solely contingent upon the economic or political situation but has everything to do with something only you can give: your compassion and time. This is hardly a new or sexy message, but it is a simple reminder that perhaps the world can begin again.

During a recent volunteer opportunity with my colleagues at the West Haven Child Development Center, I gratefully received the chance for a better day. Over the course of several hours, I read aloud several holiday tales to children who knew more about living in the moment than any self-help guide and I have never been happier to remove play dough off sticky hands and floors.

Here's to better days! Pass it on and learn how you can share your unique gifts this year by volunteering, giving and advocating.