This is community impact. A young boy connects with a role model and friend for life. A man teetering on the cusp of addiction relapse receives life-changing resources. A community leader finds a way to give to his neighbors. Volunteers fill the staffing gap so a nonprofit organization can deliver crucial basic services. Hundreds of schoolchildren get new shoes and coats when different corners of the community pull together.
Last year, United Way of the Ozarks helped make all of that happen – and more – thanks to its donors, who know that pooling their resources amplifies the help they can give neighbors. Going strong after 94 years, United Way of the Ozarks uses a large, collaborative network to help meet needs that can’t be answered by a single organization and to mobilize our community so all can thrive. The nonprofit directs funding to programs that champion children and provide pathways out of poverty across 14 counties in Southwest Missouri.
In its 2024 annual report, United Way of the Ozarks shows that from June 2022 through July 2024 it made two-year grants supporting 21 local programs at 14 local nonprofit organizations. All of that money came from UWO’s Community Investment Fund, which is built by payroll contributions and direct gifts of all sizes from individuals and businesses located across the Ozarks.
Turning a $5 donation into a $2 million impact
“We know people wonder if their gift to United Way of the Ozarks can make a difference,” shared Brandi VanAntwerp, president/CEO of the nonprofit. “The answer is “Yes!” and we’re excited to share numbers that demonstrate our donors’ combined reach and impact.”
From July 2022 through June 2024, United Way of the Ozarks distributed $1.9 million in grants to local nonprofit programs that touched thousands of local lives. The impact was substantial.
- 1,024 unhoused individuals were moved to stable housing
- 3,627 people received mental health counseling, regardless of ability to pay
- 2,167 children reached new education and developmental milestones
- 1,019 individuals were given a safe haven from abuse or neglect
- 4,130 youth were supported by a caring, consistent adult relationship
- 10,392 people received support during a crisis
“It’s all about focus. We use a competitive application process for nonprofits and a conscientious community selection process to fund programs that can really have an effect – short and long-term – on children and poverty in our region,” VanAntwerp emphasized.
The work continues
This year’s fundraising campaign for United Way of the Ozarks is underway at more than 150 companies and organizations. Funds raised now will support a new crop of 20 programs at 15 nonprofit agencies, once again selected by local volunteers who hone in on community needs.
“We raise money across our community all year long – in workplaces, at events, from organizations and individuals,” summed up Rachael Walsh, vice president of resource development. “It is truly inspiring to witness the impact these collective efforts make in our community. Every contribution shows the power of compassion and paying it forward to help our neighbors.”
Visit United Way of the Ozarks online to learn more about uplifting Southwest Missouri, including its 2024 annual report and video stories shared by people whose lives are changed by their neighbors’ generosity.