Our superpower is our ability to mobilize neighbors, donors, volunteers, and partners from all sectors of our Wabash Valley community. And we unite toward a common goal: to help every person in our community thrive.
Working for Our Community (What We Do)
United Way of the Wabash Valley is dedicated to creating prosperity in our community, knowing that every family’s success strengthens us all. But we don’t do it alone. United Way serves as a collaborator and convener, working with community partners to tackle the pressing issues and eliminate barriers that prevent families from reaching their full potential. United Way mobilizes communities to action so all can thrive.
We believe in the power of people — united through a common purpose — to accomplish anything we set our minds to.
We are a Collective Impact Organization (How We Do It)
To create positive solutions for social issues on a large scale, individuals and organizations must align efforts and work collectively towards clearly defined goals. United Way partners with local organizations, an open process to any organization that meets the required guidelines.
As the backbone of an area-wide network of community partners, we use strategic thinking, research, and powerful partnerships to improve people’s lives and build a strong community for a bright future.
United Way of the Wabash Valley’s collective impact approach addresses people’s immediate needs but also works collaboratively with other partners in the community toward changing systems to make lasting improvements. This includes grant opportunities to support collaborative approaches to addressing poverty and family stability in the region. It is about investing in the present as well as the future.
Supporting Opportunities to Help Families Thrive (Why We Do It)
In the Wabash Valley, 53% of our households are ALICE or below.
ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) may be a relative or friend. You may be ALICE. As cashiers, waiters, childcare providers, and other members of our essential workforce, ALICE earns just above the Federal Poverty Level but less than what it costs to make ends meet. These struggling households are forced to make impossible choices each day. While such hardship is pervasive, households of color are disproportionately ALICE.
ASSET LIMITED
ALICE has no safety net in times of crisis
INCOME CONSTRAINED
ALICE’s income falls short of essentials
EMPLOYED
ALICE is working, yet not earning enough
Why Do We Focus on ALICE?
ALICE households represent a large but hidden segment of our community that is struggling to afford basic necessities. The success of the Wabash Valley is directly related to the financial stability of its members.
What an ALICE Budget Actually Affords
An ALICE Budget shows what it actually takes for households to afford the basics. No extras, no margin for error. It reflects the bare minimum cost of living, accounting for essential expenses that allow individuals and families to work, care for their children, and remain stable in today’s economy.
