"Speak Out" is an expression of opinion from the Editorial Board of WBTV, and is presented by General Manager, Nick Simonette.
I want to read an email sent to SpeakOut after a recent editorial aired about The United Way.
"I would like to commend you on your investigation of the United Way in Charlotte and its respective leader and board members," writes John Cole from Lenoir.
"However, perhaps unintentionally, The United Way of Catawba County - which is completely separate from those in your story - are being directly impacted by association."
He raises an excellent point.
Frankly, it was one we had not thought of until now.
The United Way of Central Carolinas has been under great scrutiny for a year. There are lawsuits... questions about high salaries...and concern over its former management.
But The United Way is a national organization.
Not all branches can be painted with the same broad brush.
And in fact, it's not the United Way taking the biggest hit with this story.
It's the charities they help.
Those charities are hurting.
The people those charities help are hurting even more.
If you have the means to do so, still give.
Whether it's to The United Way, or directly to a charity of your choice.
Help - lots of help - is still needed.
And to John, from Lenoir:
"Thank you."
You're right to say to us, quote, "...that while these two groups share a common name, they have different boards and operate with great autonomy from each other in innumerous ways."
Because WBTV is "On Your Side," we encourage everyone to "Speak Out" - tell us what YOU think. SpeakOut@wbtv.com.
