April 2, 2020
Greetings from the Mad House!
This is the nickname we have lovingly given our home. You see... we're The Maddens and this catchy and silly name usually fits quite well. These days, even though we've had to slow down and stay tucked behind our walls, there are quite a few stressors which stay in our line of vision. I would expect, I am not alone.
My family and I started isolation on Sunday, March 15. That makes today Day 19 for this single, working mother and her two children. I am that strange extrovert that actually can enjoy time away from the outside world. I'm sure there is an official name for "my type". My children are extorverts, as well. I tell you this so you know I go through moments of complete content and moments of climbing the walls. I am thankful for my constant companions -my children- and in this uncertain time, they know they are not alone.
My love of connecting with other humans has allowed me to be a successful fundraiser and it has made up most of my professional life. For the last two years, I have been working diligently for the residents of Charlotte County by fundraising for our local United Way. Of the money we raise, 99% STAYS HERE in Charlotte County and helps our neighbors who live paycheck-to-paycheck. This neighbor we call ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed). It is without a doubt that ALICE often feels alone. 
Daily, ALICE experiences what we are just now starting to feel due to the onset of the Coronavirus. Our lives are changing rapidly and dramatically. We're possibly fearful about what tomorrow will bring. As we watch our bank accounts dwindle down, maybe struggle with poor health and lose interaction with people that make a difference in our lives. That is exactly why, now, more than ever, is the time to stay connected. You don't need to feel alone.
We remain here for you! Remember, we can help with mortgage, rent or utilities. If you have other needs that must be met, please contact us, we will connect you with the right source. We want you to know that our commitment remains the same and no matter the obstacle of the day, we rise to fight against poverty in our community. Along with our agency partners, business and individual stakeholders and our volunteers... we do not do this work alone.
Our commitment to you...
We are... working diligently with our federal, state and local leaders to aide the residents of Charlotte County.
We are... planning our Giving Challenge (24hr on-line event on April 28th)... an ideal, virtual event for donations. We have a match!
We are... continually communicating with local officials to understand and share next steps with our neighbors.
We are... seeking all relief opportunities to ease the financial burden for individuals and business that call Charlotte County home.
If you'd like to stay up to the minute with us, click here. If you find yourself at an advantage in this season of trying times and would like to help your neighbors today, click here to give. I have always found it to be true that helping others, ultimately helps ourselves. We will continue to keep you informed and, hopefully, serve as a reminder that we are in this together and when we can come out on the other side, we'll know we didn't have to do it alone.
If you need help, visit coadfl.org to apply for assistance.
Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.
Ephesians 4:2 NIV
Carrie DiMuzio Madden
Director of Donor Relations
United Way of Charlotte County