United Way has never been simply an organization I volunteer with; it has been a part of my life. First through my Dad, then through my own service and now through the opportunity to lead. For me, United Way is more than a commitment; it is a purpose.
Over the years, I have seen firsthand how United Way’s work touches lives, transforms communities and brings hope to those who need it most. Those experiences have fueled my passion and continue to drive me to do more.
As I take on the role of board chair for United Way of Central Illinois, I am filled with a mix of excitement, gratitude and a deep sense of responsibility. I am honored to serve an organization that has been part of my life for as long as I can remember.
My United Way journey began long before I became involved as an adult. I grew up in Peoria in a household where giving back whether through financial support, volunteering or simply giving your time was instilled in me from a young age. My father served on the United Way board and was involved with the organization for several years. I saw firsthand the importance of investing in your community.
In 2016, I began my own United Way journey by participating in a workplace campaign and volunteering for Day of Action. Since then, my involvement has continued to grow. I have served as an employee campaign coordinator at both my previous employer and my current employer, joined the United Way of Central Illinois Board in 2022 and most recently served as chair of the Marketing Committee since 2024.
That role was especially rewarding because it allowed me to help promote the incredible work United Way is doing throughout our community and help shape the way people see and understand its impact.
My current role as communications liaison with the Springfield Police Department has also given me an even greater understanding of the challenges facing individuals and families in our community. Through the stories I hear and the people I encounter, I see firsthand the struggles many people face, including housing instability, financial hardship and other barriers that can make it difficult to move forward.
These challenges can sometimes feel overwhelming. United Way’s ALICE program helps put a face and a name to many of the families experiencing those challenges, families who are Asset Limited, Income Constrained and Employed. They are working, contributing to our communities and doing everything they can to make ends meet, yet still struggling to afford the basics. Understanding the realities facing ALICE households reminds us that these challenges are not isolated, and that there is meaningful work to be done. It also reminds me of the power we have when we work together. No single organization can solve every challenge facing our community. But when nonprofits, businesses, government agencies, volunteers, donors and community members come together, we can make a meaningful difference. We can help build people up. We can strengthen families. We can create pathways to opportunity. We can continue working together to build a stronger Central Illinois.
As board chair, one of my primary goals is to amplify United Way’s message and reach even more people throughout our community. I want everyone to understand the vital role United Way plays in addressing some of our community’s most pressing issues.
From supporting education and financial stability to improving health outcomes and connecting people with essential resources, United Way’s impact is far-reaching. At the heart of that work is a simple belief: everyone deserves the opportunity to thrive.
One of the programs closest to my heart is the Dolly Parton Imagination Library. When my children were growing up, reading was an important part of the special moments we shared together. Now, as a grandmother to one grandson and another grandchild on the way – I hope to instill that same love of reading in the next generation.
Few things are more powerful than opening the door to learning for a child. Through the Dolly Parton Imagination Library, enrolled children receive a free book every month from birth until they begin school, helping build a foundation for literacy and a lifelong love of reading.
Programs like this demonstrate the lasting impact that can happen when a community comes together to invest in its children and its future.
I also want to acknowledge the leaders who have come before me. They have done incredible work, and I am honored to continue building on their legacy. Their dedication and vision have helped position United Way as a cornerstone of our community. I am committed to honoring that legacy while also helping move the organization forward.
As I take on this role, I find myself reflecting on why I do this work. At its core, it is about improving lives and making a difference. It is about helping a child succeed in school. It is about supporting a family as they work toward financial stability. It is about ensuring our seniors can access essential services. It is about connecting people with resources, creating opportunities and making sure no one must face life’s challenges alone.
This year’s campaign theme, “The Way Begins with Me,” is a powerful reminder that change begins with each of us. It begins with the donor who chooses to give. It begins with the volunteers who give their time. It begins with the business that invests in its employees and community. It begins with the person who sees a need and asks, “What can I do?”
The way begins with me; and it begins with all of us.
I look forward to kicking off this year’s campaign during Campaign Kickoff Week, the week of Sept. 6. We have many exciting events planned, including our kickoff celebration and annual pickleball tournament. These events are a great opportunity to come together, celebrate the impact of United Way and build excitement for the year ahead.
To our donors, volunteers, partners and the entire central Illinois community: thank you for your trust, your support and your belief in the power of working together. As I step into this new role, I am filled with hope and determination. The challenges ahead are significant, but so are the opportunities.
I am ready to be a cheerleader for United Way of Central Illinois. I am ready to help tell our story, mobilize our community and do everything I can to help ensure that everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
The way forward begins with each of us.
And for me, the way begins with a commitment to continue showing up, serving others and helping build a stronger, more resilient central Illinois together.
Nikki Monari is a 26-27 UWCIL board chair and communications liaison with the Springfield Police Department.
