UW Combined Fund Drive

Community Connections

November 2024

Hello to November! 

I’m writing this in October and it feels strange to craft this message without knowing the results of upcoming elections. In support of my mental health — and I hope yours — I’ll share the things I’m looking forward to as the year winds down. 

One of my favorite things about this time of year is that we celebrate so many traditions that are near and dear to me. One of my family faves is making lefse (Norwegian flatbread). Working with my mom and my sisters over the years has evolved to include our kiddos. The thing I love the most about it — besides the small stack of potato-y bread I get to take home — is seeing all the boys in the next generation make lefse. Definitely not something that would have happened in my Grandma’s day. 

Another tradition I’m excited about this year? Our amazing slate of fall lunch & learns, as part of the UWCFD annual giving campaign (continuing through December 6). Please join us online and learn more about some of the work that is being done to make the world a little better.  

Speaking of which… we continue to celebrate our 40th anniversary! You can learn more about events and opportunities to give here. Included in this month’s letter are some great stories. Want to learn more about the work of our featured nonprofit, Northwest Education Access? Check out this month’s inspiring NWEdA student story. 

If you are curious about Movember or want to celebrate Indigenous people or honor our military veterans, we’ve got you covered. 

Knowing that there are so many family and friend traditions that I can lean into during this time of year provides a much-needed balm for me. Singing the funny holiday songs we’ve made up, eating our traditional nontraditional foods connects me with family past, present and future. I know that the time we spend together isn’t always perfect, but some of the crazier things have resulted in the best memories.  

Hope this month marks the beginning of happy and funny memories that will bring a smile to your face for years to come! 

In full cozy mode, 

Jolyn Mason
Director of Employee Social Impact Programs
& Proud UWCFD donor