The United Way is extending the annual resource drive until March 20 and challenging the community to help close the gap on donations with the “Stronger UNITED Challenge.” The organization will be rallying on March 14, International Pie (Pi) Day, to celebrate the community and thank supporters for their participation in the “Stronger UNITED Challenge.” Donations of $100 or more (by any business or individual) made between today and March 14 will earn a thank-you pie that will be delivered on Pie (Pi) Day. The pies are being sponsored by Central State Construction to allow for all funds raised in the challenge to be invested into the community. Kristin Craig, United Way board member stated, “The Stronger UNITED Challenge will be a unique, fun way for the community to connect with United Way and its incredible mission. Bringing people out of poverty is not something that can be done alone, and this Challenge provides a way for anyone and everyone in the community to get engaged. And it just happens to include a sweet reward for your generosity… pie!” 
After listening to community members, the United Way launched a new bold goal last year to respond to community requests: to address poverty in the Wabash Valley by committing to move 10,000 struggling families into financial stability. This was in response to more than 10 years of declining donations to support local charitable organizations. Staff and volunteers knew that a change was required; the needs of the community were not getting better or going away.
A goal this substantial cannot be undertaken alone, and as financial support continues to decrease, it is time to call the community to action – to join in the Stronger UNITED Challenge. Dottie King, past United Way Board President stated, “We are working to bring together the entire Wabash Valley to focus on a single issue that the community told us was holding them back, the cycle of poverty and the struggle of working families.” Resources are needed now more than ever, to support the longtime partner agencies that have been the foundation of the organization for many years and to fund the future work of the organization.
“The United Way of the Wabash Valley is committed to continued work with the many organizations faithfully serving our community,” said Kristi Howe, UWWV Board Member, “but our community needs more from the United Way. We need problem solvers focused on long-term solutions to issues like poverty, unemployment, and substance abuse. The United Way is positioned to lead and has a proven track record of success – but we cannot do it alone. Financial resources are essential, and every donation makes a difference.”
Pie orders or donations can be placed online at uwwv.org/stronger or by calling the office at 812-235-6287. Funds raised during the Stronger UNITED Challenge will directly support United Way partner agencies, as well as the Impact Councils working in the focus areas of Education, Health, Financial Stability, Neighborhoods and Safety Net. The councils, consisting of field experts, will look at measurable and best-practice goals and how best to invest financial resources to achieve those goals. The United Way is positive and steadfast in this transition to a new service model – growth and impact are ahead. The Wabash Valley is encouraged to join the “Stronger UNITED Challenge” and may participate by donating directly at www.uwwv.org/stronger or by mailing a check to UWWV, 100 S. 7th Street, Terre Haute, IN 47807.
