United Way grows into new year
More than 80 percent of fundraising goal met; there is still time to donate
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The United Way serving Howard and Tipton Counties experienced a year of renewal and growth in 2023, and it is nearing the goal line for its annual funding campaign. Allie Tomlinson, campaign and communications director for United Way locally, was excited to share the accomplishments the nonprofit experienced over the past year.
At the top of the list is the success of the current fundraising campaign. Since it launched in November, the campaign has received donations and pledges that exceed 80 percent of United Way’s $1 million goal. But there were plenty of successes in 2023 for the organization to share.
“Our United Way made strides in the community in 2023, and we look forward to continuing on the pathway of success in 2024 and years to come,” exclaimed Tomlinson. “Last year, we tended to more than 2,500 calls within our Information and Referral program. Our Buddy Bags program is currently providing food on the weekends to 330 students weekly, and in 2024 we are branching into school corporations in Tipton County as well.
“Mission United, our veterans’ program, continues to help veterans get the support they need while being honored for their service to our country. Our Free Tax Prep Program prepared 722 tax files for the last tax season, leading to more than $800,000 poured back into our community! Lastly, our Imagination Library program, in partnership with the Dolly Parton Foundation, has provided a book each month to more than 900 children under the age of 5 in Howard and Tipton counties. This helps prepare them for kindergarten.”
The ongoing programs United Way directly supports are a source of pride for the organization and the entire community, but the nonprofit is hoping to do more. After suspending its grant program for local nonprofits in 2022, the United Way was able to resume this funding at a lower lever last year.
“We would not be able to ‘Live United’ without the local non-profit agencies in our community that do such tremendous work,” said Tomlinson. “This past year we were able to grant $50,000 across six organizations in our community. Those organizations include Bridges Outreach, Family Services Association, Turning Point, Bona Vista, Project Access, and Coordinated Assistance Ministries (CAM).”
The previous year was a rebuilding effort for the local United Way. The organization experienced a full transition in leadership. Several community members were asked to serve on its board of directors, as the board expanded and long-time members ended their terms. And it hired a new president and CEO.
Dana Neer, PhD., served 15 years at Culver Academies and also serves as a corporate chaplain, director of an orphanage, a board member of the Culver Youth Club, Saint Joseph Hospital, Hand in Hand International Adoptions, and Shade House Orphanage. Locally, he serves on the Haynes-Apperson Festival board, assists with the We Care auction, and is a member of the Guardians of the Wildcat.
“I am humbled and excited to serve as president and CEO of United Way Howard/Tipton Counties,” said Neer. “We have a lot of work to accomplish, all under the guidance of one very important principle: Accomplish our mission by being connected and focused on the love and care for people.”
With a new board, a new CEO, and a renewed vision for the community, the United Way launched its annual fundraising campaign in November. The campaign is led by local Realtor and former Howard County Commissioner Paul Wyman.
Since the launch, the funding has come quickly. Businesses and organizations are embracing the United Way again, and individuals are giving. The nonprofit is ready to resume a leadership role in the stewardship of this community’s generosity.
“We are not able to be a strong United Way without a strong community,” said Tomlinson. “It is by your impact that we are able to serve our community in the capacity that we have. Our annual campaign, ‘Be the Change,’ is moving full steam into the new year! Currently, we have received donations and pledges for more than 80 percent of our $1,000,000 goal, but we still have further to go!”
There is still time to give to United Way. Call 765-457-4357 or visit www.unitedwayhoco.org/give if you would like United Way to help your business or organization organize a pledge drive.