AIDS Network employees Julie Spangler and Kathy Fox receive donated dishes from
UAW Local 95 employee

Rock Responds

Are you wondering how you or your company can be more involved in the community? Here’s a simple way. In 2002, Rock Responds, a service of First Call, United Way’s information and referral service, was developed due to increasing unmet needs.

How does it work? A request for a need is confirmed by an agency for the person in need and emailed to over 40 agencies, businesses, churches, public and private organizations.

Rock Responds Examples

The requests cover a wide range. Here are a few examples of past needs:

View the Leadership Development Academy Presentation on Rock Responds:

Dishes Cookware Wheelchairs
Equipment for Disabled Persons Beds, Furniture

Here are two examples of emails that recently went out on
Rock Responds:

Rock Responds Message for an item “To Be Given Away”:

“Large older microwave is on a metal stand, works well. Needs to be picked up in 24 hours. Contact Christine at 295-….”

Here’s the outcome: “I took the microwave and stand for a client of mine (Rock County Human Services Department) who was homeless and is moving into an apartment next week. Thanks. Debbie”

Rock Responds Message for an agency requesting to fill a need for a client:

“I have a mother who just moved here to get away from a domestic abuse situation who is in need of a full size bed. Contact Kathy …., Supportive Service program with Economic Services, 741-….”

Here’s the outcome: “Rock Responds request for a client of mine in need of a full size bed was met today by an employee at UPS. --Kathy"

To read three stories about how Rock Responds links people with the items they need, click .

If you want more information on Rock Responds or have an item to donate:

Email bwien@uwnrc.org or call Rock Responds at (608) 752-3100 and leave the following information:

· Your name

· Your phone number

· Your email address

· A description of the item you wish to donate.

Items must be clean and in working condition. Please attach a digital picture of the item if available. Also, please indicate whether or not you can deliver the item or if pick up is required. Upon request, a tax credit letter will be issued with each donation.