MIAMI COUNTY, IN- “At United Way, we have the belief that we are a community asset—owned by the community, led by volunteers, and managed by staff,” said Debi Wallick, CEO, United Way of Miami County. “I’m humbled by everyone that came together to lend their time, talent, and treasures during a time when it’s not easy to do, and the needs of the community are incredibly significant.
With the help of several last-minute donations, the United Way of Miami County surpassed its $160,000 goal raising $178,493 for its 2021 Fall Campaign. While donations began coming in slowly while touching hundred across the Miami County area, United Way leaders fought to maintain the social services programs that depend on those dollars.
What a fantastic community we live in, “said Wallick.” We see first-hand how genuinely generous people are. We are incredibly grateful to everyone who made a gift to our 2021 campaign. We’ve all seen the challenges people are facing during the pandemic. We called our community, and so many answered that call. The generosity we witnessed this year was phenomenal.”
“It’s a major relief, and it’s very empowering to know that we were able to reach that goal,” United Way President Morgan Gold said. “We raised $177, 000 earlier in 2020 while still raising funds for our Covid Relief Fund.”
This year’s campaign was chaired by Carrie Young, along with her division chairs: Brooke Robertson, Giles Hoagland, Kathy Brehmer, Becky Wright, Amy Million, Sam Watkins, Jamey Callane, Kenny Hanson, Fran Harding, Mary Brown, Susan Stanley. Carrie also had several other volunteers that helped with the campaign blitz. “Carrie stated that United Way passing its goal bodes well for local families and philanthropy, but it also speaks favorably about Miami County’s economy.”
United Way’s annual campaign focuses on the three core issues of health, education, and financial stability. Funds are also directed toward strategies to end family homelessness, reduce barriers to employment, bridge the digital divide, and meet urgent needs in the community.
United Way of Miami County fundraising supports eight nonprofits and three initiatives in Miami County. These programs are directly responsible for providing subsidized childcare, mental health services, after-school programs, and housing solutions, among other outcomes in Miami County.
Further, United Way supports a volunteer platform and the 211 Free First Call for Help, which experienced a 200% increase in call volume during the pandemic, per the news release.
Thanks to your contribution, United Way will continue to bond people and resources together to build a stronger and healthier community.
