By NEA Director Jim Martin

By the time you read this, the tinsel and lights may have been stored away for another year. New Year's resolutions may have been made, and Weight Watchers likely will be crowded with new inductees determined to lose those unwanted holiday pounds. I hope you got everything you asked for, and that your family spent quality time together, eating, drinking, and of course, being merry.

Once the holidays have passed, it is important to realize that the giving season should continue. Quality causes, such as those associated with the UEA Children at Risk Foundation, do not come and go with turkey, holly, and mistletoe. While true that many people dig deep to help those less fortunate during the holiday season, this same spirit of giving runs the risk of getting lost the other 11 months of the year. Christmas carols may fade, but the needs of many do not.

The UEA Children at Risk Foundation was organized by former UEA President Lily Eskelsen, who now serves as secretary-treasurer of the National Education Association. The Foundation is designed to provide scholarships, grants, and assistance to Utah students and teachers. Recently, the Foundation awarded several grants to teachers across the state who work with wonderful children and families, the needs of which may require additional creativity, attention, and dedication. The Foundation continues through the generous donations of UEA members and corporate sponsors.

As you make plans for 2005, please consider a donation to the UEA Children at Risk Foundation. ( Call 800-594-8996 for more information. ) You may find that by doing so, by stretching your holiday generosity out for a full year, fewer charities will need to “beg” for support during the holidays.