INDIANA – As 2025 approaches, United Way of South Central Indiana extends its heartfelt gratitude to the community members who have helped make this year one of transformation, growth, and hope. Thanks to your generosity and unwavering support, countless lives across Brown, Greene, Lawrence, Monroe, Orange, and Owen counties have been touched, strengthening the fabric of the community and helping individuals move from poverty to possibility.
Your Impact in 2024
The United Way has been at the forefront of numerous initiatives aimed at improving the lives of residents, focusing on three core areas: Youth Opportunity, Healthy Communities, and Financial Security.
Expanding Youth Opportunity
Nearly 3,000 youth participated in mentoring and after-school programs, ensuring they had access to critical tools and support to thrive in school and beyond.
One of the standout achievements this year was the expansion of Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library across the region. This year, the program launched in Greene and Owen counties and grew in Lawrence and Orange counties, ensuring that nearly 2,000 children received monthly free books. This initiative continues to foster a love of learning from an early age, setting children on a path to future success.
The In-School Mentoring program also grew significantly, reaching over 70 middle and high school students across multiple schools. This program is designed to foster meaningful relationships that help students stay engaged, focused, and on track for success.
Creating Healthy Communities
In 2024, United Way made substantial strides in improving the health and well-being of our neighbors. Nearly 7,000 individuals accessed critical physical and mental healthcare services. Whether through preventative care, treatment, or support services, this initiative provided life-changing resources to thousands in need.
In addition to healthcare, United Way played a key role in combating hunger in our region. 4.2 million meals and 1 million pounds of fresh produce were distributed to families facing food insecurity, ensuring that no one had to go to bed hungry.
The need for emergency shelter also remained high, with nearly 600 children and adults accessing safe shelter during difficult times.
Building Financial Security
United Way’s efforts to support financial stability in our community were especially impactful in 2024. More than 800 families took advantage of free tax preparation services, saving nearly $200,000 in fees and bringing more than $1 million in refunds and credits back into the local economy.
Additionally, United Way helped nearly 1,400 individuals with utility, rent, and mortgage assistance, ensuring that families could remain safely housed during uncertain times. These services provided families with the stability they need to focus on long-term financial success and growth.
A Community That Cares
Whether through donations, volunteer hours, or simply sharing the United Way mission, each act of support has made a profound difference. Because of supporters like you, families have access to the resources they need to thrive, students excel in school, and neighbors are steadily moving from poverty to possibility.
Looking Ahead to 2025
As we look toward 2025, the United Way of South Central Indiana team is energized by the progress we’ve made together in 2024. We are inspired to do even more in the coming year to help our community grow stronger and more resilient. The work is far from over, and with your continued support, we can achieve even greater things in the year ahead.
United Way of South Central Indiana thanks you for your generosity, commitment to its mission, and unwavering support.
For more information on how to get involved or donate, visit United Way of South Central Indiana’s website.
