We believe collective well-being starts with feeling supported, connected, and cared for.
Strong communities are built when people feel connected and cared for. Our Collective Well-Being work makes sure everyone has safe places, healthy food, and chances to be part of something bigger. When people feel supported and included, our community becomes safer, healthier, and full of opportunity for all.
United Way of Story County is committed to meeting basic needs while fostering 15,000 meaningful connections by 2030 through investments in:
We believe collective well-being starts with feeling supported, connected, and cared for. By working with local partners, we help make sure people have access to essentials like food, housing, and mental health resources. When everyone’s basic needs are met and people feel a sense of belonging, our whole community becomes stronger and more resilient.
NOTE: Data from 2023 or most recent year available. While these indicators are not the only ways to assess financial education in our community, these are data points that illustrate that there is a need in our goal area.
In Story County, more than 18,500 people live below the poverty line, making it difficult to afford life’s basic needs like food, housing, transportation, and health care:
Invest in programs and resources that help people meet basic needs including:
These strategic investments deliver tangible outcomes for people living in Story County:
The 211 helpline is a free, confidential service that connects individuals to vital local resources 24/7. By dialing 2-1-1 or searching online, users can instantly find support for essential needs like housing assistance, food programs, utility aid, and healthcare.
United Way of Story County targets the root causes of household instability by investing heavily in nutrition and housing security. Through strategic funding and initiatives like the annual United Way Food Drive and investments in partner agencies to provide emergency rent, utility aid, and shelter.
Day of Caring is more than just a volunteer event; it is a celebration of compassion and collective action. By participating, you are helping us forge the meaningful connections and social momentum needed to reach our 2030 Community Impact goals.
Volunteering with United Way of Story County is one of the most direct ways to create lasting change right here at home. By coordinating both individual and corporate volunteer efforts, they connect passionate community members with critical projects across Story County.
