HUTCHINSON, Kan. — United Way is proud to announce the launch of its annual campaign to raise $1.35M in support of local non-profit programs which will serve more than 25,000 community members in the coming year, while simultaneously addressing one of Reno County’s most significant challenges.
Donors to UWRC often understand how their investments work to provide services in community meeting needs at every stage of life, but what they might not know is that gifts to the annual campaign also support UWRC’s broader work to address challenges facing ALICE households.
Today, 41% of Reno County households are ALICE or living in poverty. ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) individuals and families are those who are working and earning too much to qualify for public aid, but too little to meet basic needs such as housing, childcare, food and transportation.
In addition to announcing campaign goal, UWRC is asking the community to join their work by supporting a bold five-year goal in reducing the current ALICE threshold percentage by 5% over the next 5 years.
Campaign contributions are an important part of the effort, helping to meet immediate needs while supporting programs and solutions designed to create greater stability and opportunity over time.
Christena and David Weber of Weber Auto Glass are serving the organization as Campaign Co-Chairs this season, after long-standing support to UWRC as volunteers and donors.
“Because the dollars raised through United Way stay right here in our community, when you give, you are helping someone you know,” said Christena Weber, campaign co-chair. “It could be the baby your family just welcomed who’s getting books through the Dolly Parton Imagination Library program, or maybe a friend who is able to have end-of-life care on a sliding scale fee from Hospice and Home Care of Reno County—your donations provide vital support to local people, right here at home.”
Additionally, this year’s campaign comes with a milestone anniversary for UWRC, as the organization— established in 1936 as a Community Chest—will celebrate 90 years of community impact, with the last 50 of those being an official “United Way” organization.
“For nine decades, Reno County residents have come together to invest in their neighbors, meet needs and create opportunities,” said Lacey Mills, UWRC CEO. “Meeting our campaign goal and making progress toward our bold ALICE goal will take our community uniting—both in giving now to help those in need and dreaming together about what the future holds for Reno County.”
To learn more about the United Way of Reno County, or to make a campaign gift, visit www.uwrenocounty.org.
About United Way of Reno County
United Way of Reno County works to improve lives by mobilizing the caring power of the community to advance the common good. Through strategic partnerships, innovative programs, and direct support, UWRC addresses critical needs in youth opportunity, financial stability, health and basic needs.
