United Way of Central Indiana fights for the education, financial stability, health and basic needs of everyone in our community. So, when our partner agency, Flanner House, unveiled plans to create a community garden for the people of northwest Indianapolis to enjoy, we couldn’t wait to roll up our sleeves and get our hands dirty!

The field of Diversity and Inclusion is evolving rapidly to focus in on inclusion or actions taken to create a sense of belonging not only for employees but also for patients, customers and other constituents. Three Human Resource leaders from the healthcare, financial and nonprofit worlds were on an Indy SHRM panel April 20th to discuss how they are moving their organizations from an emphasis on diversity  to more of a spotlight on inclusion.

Stephen Hastings learned at an early age what it meant to work hard. But when he and his father traveled to Indy in search of higher-wage jobs, a strong work ethic wasn't enough. After years of struggling, Stephen found real help from the Center for Working Families at The John H. Boner Center where he was able to develop a plan with the help of a social worker, financial coach and career coach.

Melissa Meier has been involved with United Way for 15 years! A year ago, she combined her passion for quality education for all children with the impactful work of Women United. "I love the idea of women working together on behalf of the community to impact the lives of preschoolers."

Ten Indianapolis Public Schools (IPS) educators out of 584 nominees have been chosen as finalists for this year’s Hubbard Life-Changing Educator Award, presented by United Way of Central Indiana. Now in its fourth year, the award honors teachers and principals who have made a significant difference in the classroom and in the lives of students.

UPS delivers more than just packages. On April 24, UPS employees delivered loads of smiles to kids at United Way of Central Indiana partner agency, Boys and Girls Clubs of Indianapolis.

Michael O’Connor, Director of State Government Affairs for Eli Lilly and Company, has received Indiana United Ways’ highest honor for his extraordinary leadership in early childhood education and a global partnership between Lilly and United Way Worldwide. O’Connor received the Castaldi Award at the 2017 United Way and Funds State Leaders Conference Awards Banquet on April 13 at the Indianapolis Marriott North, Indianapolis.

The General Assembly voted to expand Indiana’s pre-k for low-income children with the passage of a pre-k expansion bill and approved a budget which includes an investment of $22 million per year in the next biennium budget.

United Way has collaborated with Central Indiana high school and college students, community partners and early childcare centers to host a 5K walk/run to support youth health and fitness programs. On Saturday, April 22, Indianapolis and surrounding communities are invited to partake in the festivities at White River State Park from 12:30 - 3 p.m. Registration is $10 or bring a children’s fitness item.

We are pleased the General Assembly has voted to expand Indiana’s pre-k program with 112 bipartisan votes in favor, and we applaud lawmakers’ efforts to secure a sizeable funding increase so that many more children from low-income families will have the opportunity to access the strong start in school and in life that pre-k affords.

Meet Maria, the Emerging Leader member of the month! Maria was taught at a very young age that it is important to help others around you to the best of your ability. Read more about Maria and what she believes it means to Live United!

Meet Bernice, the DLC member of the month! She’s a breast cancer survivor, Florida native and graduate a Historical Black College & University. She loves meeting people from all walks of life and learning from others. Read more about Bernice and what she believes it means to Live United!

As the Indiana General Assembly continues to debate expanding pre-k, today the “All IN 4 Pre-K” campaign announced it has earned the support of 150 Hoosier businesses, associations, community organizations and elected officials across the state.

We must advocate for better policies that help our fellow Hoosiers on their path to self-sufficiency. That’s why, within this brochure, you will see a diverse set of public policy positions that are intended to help us reach our ambitious community goals.

OneAmerica, a national leader in insurance and financial services, and United Way of Central Indiana strengthened their longstanding relationship by formalizing a strategic partnership designed to drive positive, measurable change in the community.

Every day in Central Indiana, families and individuals are challenged with providing for their household while living in poverty.

Glamorous philanthropists came from far and wide to travel down the rabbit hole into a world of whimsy at the 2017 United Way Red Carpet Gala at the Indiana Roof Ballroom. Check out photos and video from the event below.

United Way of Central Indiana fights for every person in our community, but there’s no way we can do it alone. So when the Crowe Horwarth staff asked how they could help, we couldn’t wait to partner with them to make a bigger impact.

Get to know your fellow Emerging Leader, Charles! He’s the marketing communications strategist at IPL and has been an Emerging Leader with United Way for almost a year. Read his Q&A to see learn about what inspired him to get involved, what he’s passionate about and what leadership means to him.

Joan Marsden may be 82-years-old, but there's one thing that's for sure - there's no slowing her down. A United Way volunteer for 36 years, Joan knows a thing or two about giving back to the community she loves.