Archive for March 2020
COVID-19 and the Power of Taking It Personally
Taking it personally has never felt so personal. Over the past two weeks, I’ve spent far more time in my home than anywhere else. My meeting schedule hasn’t changed—still more blocks on my calendar than in a kid’s toy box—but I’m talking across an internet connection instead of a conference table. The content of those…
Read MoreDisaster Relief Dollars Feeding Families, Keeping People Housed
Our community – individuals, companies, foundations, governments – has been exceedingly generous during this time of uncertainty as United Way and our partners work to respond to emerging needs. Since mid-March, the United Way Disaster Relief Fund has raised more than $1,100,000 to mitigate the effects of COVID-19 on people in our community – particularly…
Read MoreBecause That’s What We Do: A Snapshot of Jackson County’s Compassion
By Ken Toll One look at that photograph wiped away my fatigue and anxiety. Nine people stand in the neat, brightly lit lobby of a local hotel. One of them is in a wheelchair. Two or three, perhaps not fans of being photographed, look on warily. But the rest offer gleeful smiles. They were about…
Read MoreBe Sure You’re Giving Locally
A social media post about a United Way Economic Relief Fund that can help individuals pay bills has gone viral in the last 24 hours, offering a 1-800 contact number. Please know that this post references a fund available to residents in Indianapolis only. In Battle Creek and Kalamazoo, individuals looking for help related to…
Read MoreCOVID-19 Update: Status on Offices, Events & Community Actions
UPDATE: Our office closure has been extended through April 13. United Way is taking steps to reduce the risk of infection among staff and the public as we continue to partner with local agencies on the community’s response to COVID-19. Following the State of Michigan’s guidance, we will close our offices to the public starting…
Read MoreKnowing ALICE: Jakaria’s Story
Building a better life isn’t easy. ALICE* households are reminded of this fact every day. But as Jakaria’s story reveals, having the right people and help available can forge a pathway to success. “I was in an apartment that I liked, and it was a good price and location, but it was infested with roaches,…
Read More10 Years & Counting!
United Way Earns Top Honor The last voyage of the Space Shuttle. Prince William and Kate Middleton tie the knot. The iPhone 4S debuts. That’s what was happening during the first year your United Way received Charity Navigator’s coveted 4-Star rating. This week, we made it an even decade. Charity Navigator rates nonprofits in two…
Read MoreIMPACT! Action Changes a Teen’s Life
Teenage years should be full of fun, learning and growth as they prepare for adulthood. Sadly, for many it can be a time of crisis—and that can set them up for lifelong challenges. We partner with Do’chas in support of their crisis intervention strategies to help teens thrive. One particular program, Teens In Action, has…
Read More