Cesar Chavez founded the United Farm Workers union and fought for the rights of voiceless and disenfranchised working men and women. U.S. cities and counties have declared March 31 a holiday in honor of this great American, and Cesar Chavez Day is an official state holiday in Arizona, California, Colorado and Texas. His motto was “sí se puede” (“it can be done” or, “yes, we can”).
“Sí se puede” is very much in the spirit of United Way’s community service and civic engagement initiatives. To commemorate Chavez’ life and legacy of social activism, Foothills United Way has collaborated with Serve Colorado, Regis University, the Town of Lyons and Metro Volunteers to recruit 100 volunteers and organize a day of service. Volunteers will help with clean-up and debris removal in the Lyons area, which experienced devastating floods in September 2013. And in East San Jose, California, young students will march and rally in a Cesar Chavez Day celebration organized by United Way Silicon Valley.
On Cesar Chavez Day and every day, our call is to LIVE UNITED -- to give hope and help to individuals and families in need. Throughout the country and the world, United Way harnesses the power of volunteers, advocates and other supporters to advance the common good. I hope you’ll join us in strengthening your community by improving education, income, and health. Contact your local United Way to learn how!