As the executive director of United Way of Clark, Champaign, and Madison Counties, I’ve seen firsthand the strength and resilience of our communities. Every day, we witness individuals coming together, across neighborhoods, backgrounds and beliefs to care for one another. But today, that strength is being tested in new and profound ways.
Proposed federal and state funding cuts threaten to pull the rug out from under programs that thousands of families across our three counties rely on for stability, health and hope. Cuts to basic needs programs like food assistance, housing support and mental health services don’t just affect abstract budgets — they impact real lives. They impact the single mother in Urbana trying to find affordable childcare so she can keep her job. The elderly couple in London choosing between groceries and medication. The child in Springfield whose only meal may come from school.
This is not a distant issue. This is right here in our communities.
That’s why the work of United Way of Clark, Champaign, and Madison Counties has never been more critical. In the face of funding uncertainty, we remain a reliable, steady force, mobilizing local resources, convening partners and supporting frontline organizations that deliver essential services. We invest in programs that meet immediate needs and drive long-term change, because one without the other is not enough.
Our mission is to increase the organized capacity for people to care for one another. That means uniting around the belief that everyone deserves a fair shot at a healthy, stable and thriving life. It means advocating for equity, eliminating barriers and stepping up when systems fall short.
The truth is, we cannot rely solely on government funding to lift up our communities. When those resources are threatened, it becomes even more vital that we, as neighbors and leaders, respond with generosity, advocacy and action.
This moment is a call to care louder, give stronger and unite deeper than ever before. Because when we live united, we can face any challenge.
Join us in that work. Your support ensures we can keep showing up for our neighbors — today, tomorrow and for the future of our community.