In every strong community there is a force that binds people together, a shared belief that when we look out for one another, we all thrive. At United Way of Central Illinois, this belief is captured in our campaign theme: “The Power of Community.”
United Way works year-round to invest in programs and partnerships that create opportunities for individuals and families to succeed. By focusing on the building blocks of a good life, United Way ensures that resources are directed where they can make the greatest impact. But none of this is possible without the collective action of our neighbors, businesses, nonprofits and volunteers.
Community partnerships are the cornerstone of our work. Whether it’s through funding after-school programs that give children a safe place to learn, supporting emergency housing for families in crisis, or making sure seniors have access to transportation and socialization, United Way brings people and organizations together to solve challenges no one can tackle alone.
When we unite resources, ideas and compassion, we create a stronger, more resilient community. Every contribution matters because when one of us thrives, we all win.
This spirit of collaboration is on full display during United Way’s annual campaign kickoff week. This is a time when the community comes together to ignite momentum for the year ahead.
Kickoff Thursday at Firefighters Lake Club
This year’s campaign officially begins on Thursday, Sept. 4 in the evening at the Firefighters Lake Club. The kickoff, presented by Memorial Health, will bring together supporters, volunteers, partner agencies and community leaders for an evening of inspiration and connection. Guests will hear stories of lives changed through United Way’s work and rally together as a community toward common goals.
Thanks to the generosity of David Hilst, American Family Insurance, attendees will also create kit packets for children in foster care. This type of partnership underscores the power of local business leaders fueling community change.
The kickoff isn’t just about speeches and presentations. It’s a call to action of what can be achieved when neighbors unite behind a common purpose. It’s also an opportunity to hear from those impacted by United Way and to rally around individuals, leaders companies and organizations whose generosity make these efforts possible. We also have an exciting line up of celebrity bartenders after the kickoff.
Battle of the Paddle – Friday , Sept. 5
On Friday, Sept. 5, the excitement continues at Iles Park with the Battle of the Paddle pickleball tournament, presented by Hickory Point Bank and sponsored by Heartland Coca-Cola. This fun-filled event invites teams from across the community to compete while raising funds for United Way.
Pickleball has become one of the fastest growing sports in the country, and the Battle of the Paddle captures its spirit of friendly competition and camaraderie. More importantly, it’s a reminder that philanthropy can be both impactful and enjoyable. Every serve, volley, and point scored helps strengthen the safety nets and opportunities that countless families rely on.
The power of community in action
Events like these are demonstrations of community power in action. When people gather to support United Way, they affirm a simple but profound truth: everyone should have the opportunity to thrive.
Local nonprofits face increasing demands, whether its ensuring children are prepared for school, providing crisis assistance, or addressing food insecurity. United Way’s unique role is to bring together partners to align resources and create long-term solutions.
One example is the support of emergency shelter programs, where United Way funding helps provide a safe place for families who have nowhere else to go. Another is the expansion of literacy initiatives, like Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, which ensures that young children across Sangamon and Menard Counties have access to books that will set them on the path to lifelong learning. These efforts and many more are only possible because of the generosity and collaboration of community members.
Invitation to join the movement
As United Way launches this year’s campaign, we invite everyone to consider how they can be part of this journey. Giving is just one way to make a difference. Volunteering, advocating for community issues or simply spreading the word about the resources available through United Way are powerful contributions as well.
No action is too small when combined with the actions of others. That is what “power of community” means. Together, we can ensure that every child has the chance to succeed, every family has a safe place to live, and every individual has the support they need to thrive.
We hope you’ll join us this week as we kick off our United Way giving campaign. Find us on social media or sign up for our weekly newsletter to stay updated this fall as we unite the community. United in purpose, driven by commitment, our community thrives when we stand together.
