Krista Corner Havre Daily News kcorner@havredailynews.com
A Havre native took the helm, this summer, of a local organization that raises funds to help the needy. Lorraine Verploegen was recently appointed executive director of United Way of Hill County. She said, Tuesday, that she accepted the position July 1, and though she is still learning, she enjoys her new job. "I'm excited to work with the public again in a new role," she said. "I'm meeting a lot of new people." Verploegen said her years of working with adults and children should help her with her new quest. "I have over 30 years of teaching in a variety of positions from teaching children to inservice for teachers," she said. "I want to get adults involved (in United Way). I want to get children involved and get that experience of giving. I have a variety of ideas that I have to visit with (area) superintendents about." Another of Verploegen's plans is to instill a sense of pride in the giving heart of Havre. "I hope to instill in the community of Havre that we are a giving community, and it's not how much you give, but that you gave," she said. Though an official date in September for United Way's kickoff has not yet been set, Verploegen said she has plans in the works for the annul drive activities. "I will be contacting the 2008 recipients to see if there is something we can do for them or a family in need," she said, adding that in the past, United Way has helped with painting, and refurbishing homes for needy families and worked with organizations such as the Feed My Sheep Soup Kitchen. The United Way of Hill County's fundraising season runs between September and December, and Verploegen wants Hi-Liners to remember that by giving to United Way, they lend a helping hand to a number of local organizations all at once, she said. To volunteer to help, make a donation or get more information, contact Lorraine Verploegen at 265-6561.
