Dear editor,  

Every year, the staff and Board Members of United Way of Central Kansas are amazed with the outpouring of support that we receive in order to fund our 23 Community Partners and numerous Community Impact Programs. For the past eight years, we have been able to reach our goal and guarantee funding to our Community Partners because of the generosity of our neighbors. More than 3,000 residents of Barton and Pawnee counties donate to our campaign each year.  

Can you imagine what we could do with more?  

Our 23 Community Partners fight for better education, health and financial stability in our area. They are lending a hand to those that need it most. Never judging, never assuming, and always caring. These agencies provide services throughout Barton and Pawnee counties including drug and family counseling, utility assistance, programs to keep teens out of trouble, protecting and encouraging domestic abuse survivors, advocating on behalf of children who have been abused, as well as providing meals and ensuring the safety of seniors. Given the economic times we are in, these services are much needed in our community.  

Can you imagine our community without these agencies?

Dollars raised by United Way of Central Kansas are also used to provide Community Impact Programs. These programs benefit the community, from birth to the elderly. Putting books in the hands of children age 0-5 with Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, preparing kids for school with Literacy Kits, teaching students what life is like after school with Reality U, and delivering Boxes of Love every Valentine’s Day to home-bound seniors in Barton and Pawnee counties. By spearheading these programs, UWCK aims to put the work in today, to better our communities for the future.  

Can you imagine the difference these programs make?

As you ponder these questions, we hope that you will consider donating again to the United Way of Central Kansas. With 99 percent of the funds raised staying local and all decisions on funding and programming made right here in Central Kansas, you can rest assured that the money you donate to UWCK will be used with the upmost concern for our families, neighbors and friends in Barton and Pawnee counties. We thank you for your past support of United Way of Central Kansas, and look forward to continuing our mission, with your support, of being united for our community.  

Thank you for your consideration.

Gaila Demel

Executive Director

Barry and Monica Bowers

Patrick and Karisa Cowan

Kenny and Cindy Vink

Campaign Co-chairs