THANKS TO THE GENEROSITY
UNITED WAY OF THE MIDLANDS
$30 MILLION TO INVEST IN OUR
GENEROSITY OF OUR COMMUNITY, MIDLANDS RAISED
MORE THAN MILLION
OUR COMMUNITY
UNITED IS THE WAY
At United Way of the Midlands (UWM), we understand there is great need across the Omaha-Council Bluffs metro, and an enduring urgency to come together.
In an evolving landscape, we’re honored to work alongside so many partners and community members who care deeply about the metro area and want to make a difference.
Together, we’re helping individuals and families who are working hard but struggling to make ends meet — focusing on the issues you care about, where help is needed most.
UWM EXECUTIVE BOARD COMMITTEE 2025-2026
Paul Maass
Board Chair
CEO Scoular
Dina Tilgner
President & COO
NP Dodge Company
Chanda Chacón
President & CEO
Children’s Nebraska
Troy Via COO
Omaha Public Power District
Derek Leathers
Chairman & CEO
Werner®
Randy Wood
President & CEO
Lindsay Corporation
Chris Leitner
CEO
Tenaska
SCAN FOR FULL UWM BOARD LIST
Shawna Forsberg
President & CEO
United Way of the Midlands
RESULTS THAT MAKE A DIFFERENCE
As needs evolve and new challenges emerge, United Way is here –working alongside partners, donors and volunteers to provide relief and deliver lasting impact across the Omaha-Council Bluffs metro.
$ .93 Efficiency Ratio
150+ Programs
58,000 Volunteer Hours
500 Partners
YOUR PARTNER FOR LOCAL IMPACT
HEALTHY COMMUNITY
Improving health and well-being for all
• 7 Million Meals
• 350,000 Health Services
• 250,000 Shelter Nights
YOUTH OPPORTUNITY
Helping young people realize their full potential
• 10,000 Youth Served
• 50,000 Individual Services
• 5,000 Academic + Employment Achievements
From strengthening local resilience to advancing health, youth opportunity and financial security – a thriving community starts with deep commitment and care for one another.
FINANCIAL SECURITY
Building financial stability and strength
• 100,000 Education and Training Hours
• $3 Million in Financial Assistance
• 5,000 Other Supportive Services
COMMUNITY RESILIENCY
Addressing urgent needs today to advance a better tomorrow
• 1 Million Family Essentials Distributed
• 150,000 Referrals Provided
• 40,000 Volunteer Hours
*Datareflect2025-2026goals
OUR COMMITMENT
We honor your generosity by investing contributions efficiently and effectively. Your gift reaches neighbors across our community and helps people move forward with hope and support.
LOCAL: We stay closely connected to the needs of our community so donations are invested in the most impactful health and human service programs, right here in the metro area.
EFFICIENT: As trusted stewards of donor funds, UWM’s efficiency means that 93 cents* of every donated dollar is invested back into our community – exceeding national standards.
COLLABORATIVE: Through public-private partnerships, the dedication of local volunteers and the expertise of community leaders we deliver services that address real community needs.
RESULTS-BASED: We collect program outcomes, measure impact and share the results with you.
*Thiscalculationisbasedonfiscalyear2025-2026projections
RESPONSIVE TO COMMUNITY NEEDS
When you give directly to United Way of the Midlands, you’re fueling a network of proven programs and direct services that work together to meet our community’s most pressing needs. Your gift goes further — reaching across issue areas, maximizing impact and helping people right here at home build stronger, more stable lives.
Get Connected. Get Help.™
IMPACT FUND
COMMUNITY INVESTMENTS
African American Empowerment Network
Autism Action Partnership
Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Midlands
Boys and Girls Club of the Midlands
Brighten Our Future Early Learning Center
Carole’s House of Hope
Catholic Charities Diocese of Des Moines
Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Omaha
Child Saving Institute
Christ Child Society
CIRA
City Sprouts
Code Black Tech
Collective for Youth
College Possible
Completely KIDS
Connected Roots Care Center
D2 Center
Eastern Nebraska Community Action Partnership
Easterseals Society of Nebraska
Education Rights Counsel
Family Housing Advisory Services
Father Flanagan’s Boys Home
Firefly
Girl Scouts Spirit of Nebraska
Girls Inc. of Omaha
Goodwill Industries
Habitat for Humanity of Council Bluffs
Heart Ministry Center
Heartland Equine Therapeutic Riding Academy
Heartland Family Service
Heartland Hope Mission
Heartland Workers Center
I Be Black Girl
inCOMMON Community Development
Intercultural Senior Center
International Council for Refugees and Immigrants
Iowa Jobs for America’s Graduates (iJAG)
Iowa Legal Aid
Jewish Federation of Omaha
Kids Can Community Center
La Fuente Business Center
Latino Center of the Midlands
Legal Aid of Nebraska
Little Leaf Learning Center
Lutheran Family Services
MICAH House Corporation
Millard Public Schools
Nebraska Center for Workforce Development and Education
Nebraska Diaper Bank
Neighborgood
New Visions Homeless Services
No More Empty Pots
Ollie Webb Center
Omaha ForUs
Omaha Home for Boys
Omaha Public Schools
OneWorld Community Health Centers
Partnership 4 Kids
Project Houseworks
Restoring Dignity
RISE
Room for Roots
Santa Monica House
Scouting America
Sheltering Tree
Siena Francis House
Stephen Center
TeamMates Mentoring
The Salvation Army
The Simple Foundation
Together
*Includesagenciesfundedthrough CommunityImpactFundand KarnettTrustinvestmentprocesses
United Cerebral Palsy of Nebraska
Urban League of Nebraska
Visiting Nurse Health Services
Whispering Roots
Women’s Center for Advancement
YMCA of Greater Omaha
Youth Emergency Services
YouTurn
For more information about UWM’s investments, scan the QR code or go to: UnitedWayMidlands.org/Investments
211 HELP STARTS HERE
Every hour of every day, someone in our region is facing a challenge and needs support. The 211 Helpline connects people looking for assistance to local health and human services programs, community services, governmental programs and other resources that can help.
*315,000 CONTACTS
TOP FIVE NEEDS OF CALLERS TO 211
HOUSING UTILITIES INCOME ASSISTANCE TRANSPORTATION FOOD/MEALS
211 Community Programs
To address the evolving needs of individuals seeking help, 211 offers specialized assistance to seniors, veterans and military families, families with young children and individuals facing health or transportation challenges. These programs ensure help is accessible, responsive and rooted in community care.
*Representscalls,emails,textsandappinteractionsthroughourContactCenter, engagedwebsessionsandoutreachcontactsandmaterialsdistributedforNE andIAfromJuly1,2024toJune30,2025.
WEATHERIZATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM
United Way of the Midlands is proud to partner with OPPD and the Nebraska Department of Water, Energy and Environment on the Weatherization Assistance Program — a free energyefficiency service that helps low-income households reduce utility costs while improving health and safety*.
In addition to upgrades like insulation and air sealing, trained Weatherization crews check for issues like poor air quality, carbon monoxide, combustion safety and mold. Each home receives a personalized work order, and a certified Quality Control Inspector ensures all work is completed to standard. In Douglas County, United Way’s 211 Helpline helps residents apply.
Benefits of the program include:
• Lower energy bills up to 30%
• Improve comfort year-round
• Enhance safety inside the home
*Weatherizationisprovidedatnocosttoeligiblehouseholdsthroughfederalfunding fromtheU.S.DepartmentsofEnergyandHealthandHumanServices.
Without a home everything else falls apart. The United Housing Network (UHN) helps families stay housed, stay stable and stay on track by combining flexible financial assistance with rapid connections to local support.
Our Approach:
• Focus on families with children to reduce school disruption and learning loss
• Prioritize prevention and long-term stability over crisis response
• Adapt the nation’s leading model to meet the unique needs of our local community
• Leverage United Way’s network of partners and in-house programs for faster, more effective support
• Provide flexible assistance for crisis needs through support from Women United and the Tocqueville Women's Initiative
For More Information:
UnitedWayMidlands.org/Housing-Network
UNITED HOUSING NETWORK
50 families a month face homelessness for the first time
70% of families will remain housed within 12 months of services
100% of donations to UHN directly support families thanks to a partnership with the Siemer Institute
A for-credit, classroom elective available in middle and high schools that equips students with life skills, career development and leadership training to excel both academically and in their future careers – that’s JAG Nebraska.
Since its start in 2019 through a partnership with the State of Nebraska’s Departments of Labor and Health and Human Services, and with the current support of Governor Jim Pillen, the program now reaches more than 4,000 students annually in the state.
JAG Career Specialists provide hands-on instruction, trauma-informed care and project-based learning – helping students develop up to 87 real-world competencies. They also connect students directly with communities and employers through on-site tours, job shadowing, career development conferences and firsthand experiences through employer-engagement activities. These opportunities expose students to diverse career pathways and foster a pipeline of confident, skilled workers for the state of Nebraska.
"Our young people are the future of our great state. We need to give them every opportunity to succeed in school, in the workforce and in life. JAG Nebraska is giving them that chance."
— Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen
For More Information: JAGNebraska.org
JAG Nebraska Outcomes*
• 4,000+ student participants
• 97% graduation rate (higher than the NE state average of 88%)
• 88% full-time employment rate
• 2,300 student engagement activities
*Basedon2023-2024schoolyearand12-monthpost-graduationfollow-up
GOODFELLOWS
United Way of the Midlands is proud to partner with the Omaha World-Herald to administer the Goodfellows program that provides assistance to those who find themselves in crisis and need a helping hand. From offering emergency financial relief and helping families stay in their homes, to ensuring they have the necessities they need – Goodfellows is committed to providing help when it’s needed most. This year, more than $600,000 will be invested in emergency services, holiday food vouchers and other programs to help people move forward.
Last year, Goodfellows supported more than 3,500 adults & children
By partnering with OPPD on the Greener Together Program, United Way of the Midlands is helping build a stronger, more sustainable future. Together, we're investing in projects that support local nonprofits — helping them build capacity, improve efficiency and deliver services in more sustainable ways. These efforts strengthen the systems our community relies on every day.
Here’s how the process works:
• Community members and OPPD customers contribute to the Greener Together Fund at a level that fits their budget.
• Local nonprofits apply for funding to support sustainability-focused projects.
• Funds are distributed to nonprofits to bring their projects to life – helping create a cleaner, healthier community for all.
• We track the impact, ensuring transparency and measurable results.
More Information:
CHAD - COMBINED HEALTH AGENCIES DRIVE
The ALS Association
Alzheimer’s Association Nebraska Chapter
Through our partnership with the Combined Health Agencies Drive (CHAD), local health charities receive funding to conduct innovative research, provide critical client services and offer education and prevention programs that focus on improving the health and quality of life of those living in Nebraska.
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Nebraska
American Lung Association in Nebraska
Angels Among Us
Arthritis Foundation Nebraska
Autism Action Partnership
Brain Injury Association of Nebraska
Breakthrough T1D™ Nebraska & Iowa (Formerly JDRF)
Crohn's & Colitis Foundation, Nebraska/Iowa Chapter
Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Nebraska Chapter
Epilepsy Foundation Nebraska
Heart Heroes, Inc.
The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society – Nebraska
March of Dimes, Nebraska & Western Iowa Market
National MS Society, Mid-America Chapter
Nebraska AIDS Project
Nebraska Chapter of the National Bleeding Disorders Foundation
Nebraska Health Care Foundation
Nebraska Hospice and Palliative Care Association
Nebraska Kidney Association
Susan G. Komen®
Team Jack Foundation
United Cerebral Palsy of Nebraska
Created through a legacy gift from Ellen C. Karnett and administered by United Way of the Midlands, the Karnett Trust supports children with intellectual and developmental disabilities in our community. Volunteers review applications and make multi-year funding recommendations for programs in the Omaha-Council Bluffs metro.
2025-2027 Funded Agencies:
• Autism Action Partnership
• Completely KIDS
• Connected Roots Care Center
• Easterseals Society of Nebraska
• Education Rights Counsel
• Goodwill Industries Inc.
• Heartland Equine Therapeutic Riding Academy (HETRA)
• Little Leaf Learning Center
• Sheltering Tree
• United Cerebral Palsy of Nebraska
CRCSP - COURT REFERRAL COMMUNITY SERVICE PROGRAM
In collaboration with Douglas County and partners in the court system, UWM’s Court Referral Community Service Program and Offender Work Program (OWP) serve approximately 400 justice-involved adults annually – referring them to agencies for completion of community service hours, verifying they complete their hours and delivering reports to probation officers and the courts. This represents more than 2,500 service hours for our community –and CRCSP is currently on-track to serve the most clients since 2016.
The work of the CRCSP saves Douglas County taxpayers an estimated $450,000 ANNUALLY
OMAHA FEDERATION OF LABOR
Partners since 1941, the relationship between United Way of the Midlands and the Omaha Federation of Labor (AFL-CIO) is built upon a mutual desire to create a better, stronger and more resilient community. Through this partnership, we host an annual Blue Collar Boxing event that benefits the Nebraska Center for Workforce Development and Education (NCWDE) and UWM’s Community Impact Fund. NCWDE is focused on increasing the qualified workforce in Nebraska by creating opportunities for Omaha’s young people to gain exposure to and pursue careers in the trades, while also developing the skills to support the infrastructure of Nebraska.
SHINE BRIGHT
As part of its Good on the Go program, UWM partners with local school districts and raises funds for the purchase and assembly of Shine Bright hygiene kits for kindergarten, sixth- and ninthgrade students. The kits are then distributed to students in the Omaha, Council Bluffs and Papillion La Vista school districts –as well as JAG Nebraska students across the state. Each Shine Bright kit contains the full-size essential hygiene items kids need to feel confident so they can start the year off right.
Each year, Shine Bright:
• Brings together nearly 400 community volunteers from 29 organizations/companies
• Distributes 5,400 kits to local school districts and JAG students across Nebraska
• Receives support from our generous sponsors: Election Systems & Software, Fiserv, Liberty Packaging, Penske, Wellabe, Werner® and WoodmenLife
MAKING POSITIVE CHANGE POSSIBLE
Improving HEALTH and WELL-BEING for all
Lisa
joined the Community Harvest program to help ease food insecurity for her family. Through No More Empty Pots, she receives fresh produce and prepared meals — support that has made a real difference in her family’s life. Curious and engaged, Lisa often reaches out with questions about how to prepare, store or use unfamiliar items. She’s even embraced ingredients like jackfruit and hibiscus, experimenting with recipes and expanding her cooking skills.
*Left:PhotoofNoMoreEmptyPotsstaff. Client'snamehasbeenchangedtoprotectprivacy.
About 20% of adults in the metro area ran out of food in the last year before they could buy more.
Source: 2024 Community Health Needs Assessment
When individuals have what they need to thrive, it impacts our entire community. Here are some examples of how your care for community is making an impact across the metro.
Helping YOUNG PEOPLE realize their FULL POTENTIAL
Jordanarrived at Omaha Home for Boys (OHB) at age 16 and school wasn’t a priority — he had zero credits and a history of instability. But through the structure of Crisis Stabilization and the support of the Residential Living Program, things began to change. In just a few months, Jordan earned 21 credits, caught up on a year and a half of school and found direction through OHB’s Skilled Trades Program. He discovered a passion for welding and electrical work, took on leadership roles and developed critical life skills like self-control and communication.
More than
7,500 youth in the metro are disconnected from work or school.
Source: 2022 Measure of America
OUR COMMUNITY THRIVES WHEN WE COME TOGETHER
Creatinga STRONGER financial FUTUREforeverygeneration
entered Goodwill’s YouthBuild program after aging out of foster care and he was facing some serious challenges — unstable housing, a criminal record and no support system. But with determination and drive, he committed to changing the path for himself and his twin brother. Within his first 60 days, Kevin earned key safety certifications, completed leadership and job readiness training and gave back through community service. With continued support from YouthBuild, he secured full-time employment, moved into his own apartment and is now working toward his dream of launching a moving company.
1 in 3
U.S. households can’t afford a $400 emergency expense.
Sources: Report on the Economic Well-Being of U.S. Households in 2024 published May 2025. 2024 Community Health Needs Assessment.
Addressingurgent NEEDStoday for a BETTER TOMORROW
Lilly
was in a car accident. She used her savings to pay her last month's rent but her medical release back to work still wasn't for another couple weeks. Lilly reached out to 211 to see what resources could be offered while she was off. A Goodfellows pledge was made to cover her rent and due to her being a good tenant, the landlord was willing to work with her while she was off work until she was able to go back.
*Right:Photoisrepresentativeimageusedfor illustrativepurposes.Clientnameshavebeen changedtoprotectprivacy.
27% of people in the U.S. experience short episodes of poverty, 9x as high as rates of chronic poverty
Source: Dynamics of Poverty Report, U.S. Census, 2017-2019 published December 2022
UWM SIGNATURE VOLUNTEER EVENTS & OPPORTUNITIES
We come to you to build care kits for local nonprofits to distribute.
Celebrate volunteers and serve the community through metro-wide opportunities. Pack 5,000+ hygiene kits to help students start school strong.
A one-day volunteer event supporting local nonprofits and community needs.
Shine Bright
August 5 - 8, 2025
Day of Caring
September 12, 2025
Holiday Helpers
November 1 - December 31, 2025
MLK Day Volunteer Project
January 19, 2026
Volunteer Appreciation Awards Luncheon
April 9, 2026
This program matches skills-based volunteer requests with those who have the expertise and experience needed.
Give back through holiday drives, volunteer projects and community support all season.
Honor Dr. King’s legacy through service and community impact.
VOLUNTEERS UNITED
Through Volunteers United, you will have the chance to connect with other caring people, supporting critical nonprofit programs and building a stronger community. Whether you’re lending a hand at key events or helping behind the scenes, your time and energy will create ripples of good across the Omaha-Council Bluffs metro and support the essential work of UWM.
Scan the code below or go to UnitedWayMidlands.org/Volunteer
to see how you can participate in an existing volunteer project, organize a custom corporate volunteer project or assemble kits for people in need.
UNITED IN PURPOSE
TOCQUEVILLE SOCIETY
Established in 1987, the Tocqueville Society recognizes individuals and families making annual gifts of $10,000 or more. As leaders who care deeply about community, the generosity of our Tocqueville Society members has resulted in more than $141 million being invested in programs that will strengthen our community for generations to come. For this last fiscal year, UWM surpassed Mr. Warren Buffett’s Tocqueville Membership Challenge – reaching 409 members and increasing his generous match of UWM’s campaign.
For More Information: UnitedWayMidlands.org/Tocqueville
BRIDGEBUILDER SOCIETY
Established in 1989, the Bridgebuilder Society recognizes individuals and families making annual gifts of $1,000 to $9,999. Together, these changemakers help bridge the gap between the increasing needs in our community and the services available to meet them by filling critical gaps, strengthening essential programs and creating pathways to opportunity.
For More Information: UnitedWayMidlands.org/Bridgebuilder
WOMEN UNITED
This passionate group of women leaders are recognized for annual gifts of $1,500 or more and engage in work that makes positive change possible for families across the metro. Women United lift one another up, while gaining deeper insight into challenges and how they can work together to create a brighter future. Women United’s current initiative is the United Housing Network – working to keep families safe, stable and housed in our community.
For More Information: UnitedWayMidlands.org/WomenUnited
EMERGING LEADERS
This dynamic group of early- to mid-career professionals brings philanthropy to life through action, generosity and connection. Recognized for their annual gifts of $250 or more, Emerging Leaders engage in meaningful volunteer opportunities and networking events that strengthen their ties to the community — and to one another. It’s a space where time, voice and impact truly matter. Currently, Emerging Leaders proudly support the JAG Nebraska program.
For More Information: UnitedWayMidlands.org/EmergingLeaders
“We give to United Way because we want to help make a difference for our neighbors in need in the Omaha-Council Bluffs metro for many years to come.”
– Tim and Traci Harrison
Born and raised in Council Bluffs, Ron Lewer was a quiet, lifelong giver whose deep generosity and simple living led to alegacygiftofmorethan$836,000to United Way of the Midlands — supporting the community he uplifted throughout his life.
Everyone deserves the chance to leave something meaningful behind. Planned giving is for anyone who wants to make a difference now and in the future. And it’s easier to get started than you might think.
With a planned gift to United Way of the Midlands, we partner directly with you or your financial advisor to help you structure a gift to grow and adapt over time. Your gift will address the most pressing needs and help our community sustain essential services, respond to crises and support the issues you care about most.
Our Approach:
• Structured with Care
• Stewarded with Integrity
AS OUR COMMUNITY GROWS, YOUR GIFT KEEPS WORKING
Funds are professionally managed by trusted investment partners at local banks and overseen by a Finance Committee of experienced business and financial leaders. This team reviews performance, sets investment strategy and ensures your gift is positioned for long-term results.
• Sustained for Lasting Impact
HOW YOUR BUILDS OVER TIME LEGACY
