We are officially in full swing this campaign season, and I cannot express how energized our team feels by the incredible support pouring in from workplace campaigns and generous community members across Story County.
Our mission is to unite people, ideas, and resources to transform lives, a vision that is only made possible through your partnership. Together, through our 2030 Community Impact Agenda, we are focusing on three core pillars that build a stronger, more resilient community: Bright Futures, Financial Empowerment, and Collective Well-Being.
Here is a glimpse of what your investment is making possible:
Bright Futures
We are expanding access to high-quality, affordable child care and providing critical reading intervention for elementary students through the AmeriCorps Reading Corps. Because of your support, nearly 350 elementary students are receiving the individualized help they need to achieve and sustain grade-level reading benchmarks at a pivotal developmental stage—setting them up for success throughout their academic journeys and beyond.
Financial Empowerment
Our Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program continues to serve more neighbors every year by offering free basic tax preparation to qualifying taxpayers. Last year alone, volunteers filed 525 tax returns, delivering $508,000 in tax refunds back to Story County residents. These dollars make an immediate, tangible difference, helping local families catch up on utility bills, build emergency savings, and handle life’s unexpected expenses.
Collective Well-Being
Strong communities thrive when every neighbor feels connected, supported, and cared for. By offering hands-on volunteer opportunities like assembling essential item kits, we are fostering a connected community where residents actively lift up their neighbors. To ensure basic needs are met across our region, we recently welcomed two new partner agencies, Nevada Food at First and Creative Counseling Services, expanding local access to nutritious meals and vital mental health care.
You Are the Catalyst for Change
None of these milestones would be possible without your contribution to our annual campaign. Because of you, children are discovering a love for reading, families are finding stable financial ground, and our neighbors have access to food and care when they need it most.
Thank you for your trust, your generosity, and your unwavering commitment to transforming lives across Story County.
If you would like to make a contribution or learn more about how to get involved this season, please visit uwstory.org/donate.
United is the Way.