As I wrap up my year as board chair of United Way of Central Illinois, I find myself reflecting on a journey that began more than 25 years ago.
My United Way story started in 2001 when I led the workplace campaign at Eaton Hydraulics. Not long afterward, I began volunteering as a co-chair on the Community Fund Panel. At the time, I never imagined those early opportunities to give back would eventually lead to serving as board chair from July 2025 through June 2026.
Over the years, I have learned that United Way is about much more than fundraising. It is about bringing people together to solve problems, strengthen our communities and create opportunities for our neighbors to thrive.
This past year was a reminder of how much can be accomplished when people come together around a common purpose.
One of the initiatives closest to my heart was the launch of the ALICE Fund. As a human resources professional, I see firsthand the reality facing many hardworking individuals and families who are doing everything right but still struggle to make ends meet. These are our neighbors who live paycheck to paycheck and often have little ability to absorb life’s unexpected challenges. The ALICE Fund is designed to help support those individuals and families when they need it most, and I believe it will have a lasting impact on our region.
We also found new ways to engage our community. This year marked the introduction of our first Ride United poker-run event, bringing together a new group of community members who wanted to support local needs while enjoying a unique experience. We continued building on the success of Battle of the Paddle, welcoming pickleball enthusiasts to be part of our mission and proving that giving back can be both meaningful and fun.
Equally important was our continued investment in the next generation of leaders through our student chapters and RISE, United Way’s young professionals organization. One of the greatest gifts we can give young people is an understanding that they have the power to make a difference. When they learn early to share their time, talents, and treasure, service becomes part of who they are throughout their lives.
I would also be remiss if I did not mention the Dolly Parton Imagination Library. Few things are more powerful than opening the door to learning for a child. Through this incredible program, children who enroll receive a free book every month from birth until they begin school, helping build a foundation for literacy and a lifelong love of reading.
What I appreciate most about United Way of Central Illinois is its commitment to inclusion. Whether someone wants to volunteer, advocate, donate, or simply learn more about community needs, there is a place for them. Likewise, there is a place for those who need support as they work to overcome challenges and get back on their feet. We recognize that strong communities are built when we support one another.
I am deeply grateful to the volunteers, donors, community partners, Board members, and staff who make this work possible. Their generosity, compassion, and commitment inspire me every day. I am especially thankful for the opportunity to work alongside President and CEO Marne Fauser, whose passion, creativity and leadership continue to move our organization forward.
Serving as board chair has been one of the greatest honors of my volunteer journey. While not everyone will have the opportunity to serve in this role, everyone can make a difference. Every act of service matters. Every donation matters. Every voice matters.
As I pass leadership to incoming Board Chair Nikki Monari, I do so with great confidence in the future of United Way of Central Illinois. The work ahead remains important, but so does the spirit of generosity that defines our community.
For more than two decades, I have witnessed what happens when people come together to help one another. Time and again, I have seen neighbors step forward, lend a hand and invest in a brighter future for others.
That is why I continue to believe what United Way has taught me all these years: United is the Way.
Penny McCarty is finishing her year as the board chair for United Way of Central Illinois.
