One bad apple spoils the bunch, says the adage. But in this case, the apple can simply be thrown out. The actions of Jacquelyn Allen-MacGregor, Capital Area United Way's former finance chief, should not deter kind-hearted citizens from opening their pocketbooks to support a worthy cause.
Allen-MacGregor was sentenced to four years in prison and three years of supervised release after she was found guilty earlier this year of embezzling about $2 million over nine years to purchase show horses.
MacGregor is paying her price, but the United Way as a whole should not.
With the United Way kicking off it's 2003 capital campaign Monday, community members should put their faith back into the organization. Raising money is no easy task. In a time of economic uncertainty, many citizens try to keep their finances under as much control as possible.
But there are some who have little or no finances to control, which is where the organization comes into play. No donation amount goal has been set for its campaign, which reached $6.5 million last year. The organization has paid its dues; now it's time for us to pay our dues.
"The United Way is bigger than any individual," Bob Roth, regional director for United Auto Workers said in a July story.
Labor unions are just a fraction of organizations that work closely with the United Way.
Following the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, the organization raised $17,188 for the American Red Cross despite a decrease in donations. And if it weren't for about $260,000 raised annually, Lansing youth would not have mentors and other after- school activities under the Boys & Girls Club of Lansing.
The MSU community should especially be aware that we are the ones responsible for much of the organization's finances.
During Greek Week and other fund-raisers, MSU sororities and fraternities list the organization as one of its charity groups.
Several dorm organizations and other student groups constantly hold various types of fundraisers to support the organization.
It's not so easy to forgive and forget, which is why citizens should pay attention to exactly what the organization has been doing to move past this fault and what it has already done to help the community.
Organization leaders said they have instituted a 16-point plan to evaluate operations and prevent misdeeds such as that of Allen-MacGregor from happening again.
Now it is up to the citizens to rebuild their trust in the organization. Citizens should be grateful for the things that are available for those in need because of the United Way's contributions.
The organization is instrumental in making sure Lansing-area resources do not go to waste.
Donating to a charity is never a waste of time or money. Any donation to the organization helps.
By not supporting the United Way, there is a disservice done to this community.
The next time you find a $20 bill on the ground, or if you've got a refund check coming, think of how much good that money can do.
