One of the many great things about Meridian is how our community members are dedicated to helping those around them. Whether it is donating time and talents to local service organizations, helping a neighbor in need, or so many other ways of getting involved, you will often see our residents on the front lines. While many can give time and talents, there is also another need organizations have, and that is treasure.

With that service-oriented mindset, I wanted to let you know that this week, May 2nd-5th is Idaho Gives. This is an opportunity for people around the state to unite around causes we truly believe in and also help nonprofit organizations connect to the larger community through financial contributions.

Idaho Gives was launched in 2013 by the Idaho Nonprofit Center. Its goal each year is to raise money and awareness for local nonprofits. Since Idaho Gives started, they have raised more than $16 million for hundreds of Idaho nonprofits and causes. They raised just under $4 million last year; to say it has grown is an understatement! That’s why this year their goal is to reach that $4 million mark for nonprofits statewide.

I’m inviting you to consider participating in the Idaho Gives campaign to support your favorite charity or charities. You can join by visiting www.IdahoGives.org this week and search for your favorite nonprofit or organization to support. With over 600 nonprofits registered, I know that can be a chore. However, you can narrow down your search by location, cause, and even an “underdog” status. There are many local nonprofits to consider, such as the Education Foundation of West Ada, Children’s Museum of Idaho, Meridian Food Bank, Idaho Humane Society, Meridian Symphony Orchestra, Treasure Valley Children’s Theater, and so many more.

Idaho Nonprofits represent almost 10% of all private sector jobs, making it the 6th largest sector by employment in Idaho. While these are great numbers, the real value Idaho nonprofits bring to our state can’t be measured. These organizations support our families, veterans, animals, the arts, education, and so many other important causes. We must work together to support these organizations as they play a crucial role in elevating the quality of life in each local community, providing services, healthcare, food, housing, arts, and helping make Meridian a premier place to live, work, and raise a family.

Idaho Gives is supported by many and I want to thank those who put in the hard work to make this event possible, the organizations that serve our community, and each of the donors who make this event such a success. While one person can make a large impact, I believe collectively we can change the future for those people and issues that need community support. This is people helping people – something we are good at here in Idaho.