Every year when the calendar flips to December, United Way in Montgomery County begins to wrap up its annual campaign.
The annual fundraising drive is a way for community members to rally together to financially support the daily operations of more than 19 non-profit agencies.
Because the campaign depends on the generosity of local donors, it is imperative to understand the need right here in Montgomery County.
“We face some serious challenges in our community,” said Gina Haile, United Way area director. “ Food insecurity is becoming one of the largest.”
In 2022, Grace & Mercy Food Pantry served an average of 890 families per month; this year they are averaging close to 1,300.
Substance abuse continues to plague the county. The Recovery Coalition Rec Center saw a 275% increase in 2023 of those striving to maintain their sobriety.
Montgomery County continues to be a childcare desert. United Way funds support five daycares and preschools ensuring families have access to a safe, educational environment.
Affordable housing is extremely limited. Pam’s Promise, providing transitional housing for women and children (the hardest affected by this challenge), routinely has all available spots filled with a waiting list.
“Overall, with 12% of the community living in poverty and 25% more not able to afford all their basic needs despite being employed, many of our friends, family and neighbors need access and assistance from one or more of these agencies at some point,” Haile said.
The good news is that many have already stepped forward to give.
“Our local industries, public services and businesses hold company campaigns to provide a way for employees to give through payroll deductions,” Haile said. “Our very first such campaign was the Crawfordsville Community School Corporation. They have been slowly growing over the past few years but decided to get creative and try to challenge themselves — literally. The goal was to grow participation by 40% over the previous year. The reward was the opportunity to wear jeans to work anytime they desired all year long, not just on Fridays.”
That prompted much spirit, and the team increased their participation by 127% and the funds raised increased by 72%.
Acuity Brands and North Montgomery School Corporation each increased pledge amounts by 25%, Wabash College employees gave 21% more than last year, and Whitesville Mill Services had 100% employee participation.
“We are extremely grateful for these efforts, and for all our company partnerships,” Haile said. “Their shared commitment to this community is vital.”
United Way in Montgomery County is also so fortunate to have small businesses, local professionals and many individuals who give to the campaign.
“This is so crucial and our biggest need this year,” she added. “Our goal of $375,000 is within reach. With additional end of the year donations, we can flip the calendar to January with the assurance that our Montgomery County non-profit agencies are equipped with the resources they need to help our community address our challenges in 2024.”
All gifts, regardless of size, make a difference. Donations can be sent to United Way in Montgomery County, P.O. Box 247, Crawfordsville, IN 47933, with credit card at uwmontgomery.org or through Venmo (@uwmontgomery).
