Dear Renee Moe and United Way of Dane County,

The past week has been both the longest and shortest that we have ever walked through at Abundant Life Christian School. In the wake of the most terrible tragedy to occur to us, we have been blessed by an outpouring of support, kindness, and love.

We are incredibly grateful to United Way of Dane County for being so quick to respond with what is needed most – funds to support our families.

The Abundant Life Christian School Emergency and Recovery Fund established by United Way of Dane County is a gift to our faculty, staff, students and families. Our top priorities for these monies are to support our school family from the ongoing needs of the injured to the long-term mental health needs of the student body, staff, and families. Our order of priority is to come alongside any financial needs of the families who lost loved ones first, then to support the medical expenses of those injured, then with remaining funds to provide for the mental health needs of the Challenger Family that come from the traumatic incident on December 16.

We can truly never express the depth of our gratitude to the community of Madison and beyond who have come alongside us in these most trying of days. We have been loved so well!

Thank you for all of your help and for making it possible for us to further support our Challenger Family in ways that make a real difference.

The Greatest Christmas Gift of All

By: Larry Barton, President and CEO, Strang Inc.;
2024 Campaign Chair, United Way of Dane County

As we approach the holiday season and a time of gratitude and celebration, I can’t help but reflect on my childhood and Christmases past.

For those who have been following my journey as this year’s United Way of Dane County Campaign Chair, you may know that my upbringing wasn’t always easy. My story is one I’ve kept private my entire adult life, but find that by sharing, it’s helping others. So, I share it with you all here today.

As a child, my father suffered from severe alcoholism, my mother left when I was seven, and my father moved with my brother and I to Dallas where we spent the next five years living in deep poverty. From this time came many struggles, but there’s one story in particular I’d like to share this holiday season – the story of the greatest Christmas gift I ever received.

When I was nine, I was hit by a car leaving my leg broken and requiring a three-month hospital stay followed by another three months in a full body cast where I was confined to a hospital bed in the middle of the living room of our small apartment. My father was ill and unable to work, and we had reached the depth of poverty, surviving on powdered milk and corn meal.

That Christmas season, I remember my father saying in a defeated voice, “Boys, I’m afraid there won’t be a Christmas for us this year.” To this day, it breaks my heart to think of any parent having to say that to their children.

Christmas day came and it began like every other day, but then there was a knock on the door. There stood three adults with bags of groceries, a Christmas meal and a wrapped present for my brother and me – his was a toy piano, mine a toy horn, and both came with song books. We were overjoyed!

This seemingly simple gift had a major impact on my life. Now, when my father was out looking for work and my brother was at school, I spent my days learning to play songs and I developed a love of music that is with me to this day. When the cast came off and I could attend school, I excelled in music class. Later, as a young adult, I played in local bands and eventually saved enough money to attend school and have since enjoyed a successful 40+ year career in the field of Architecture.

That single knock on the door over 50 years ago changed my life. I consider those three people unsung heroes. During our five years in poverty, we were supported in many other ways by charitable organizations, helping with housing, food, healthcare, transportation, and counseling. With their help, our family overcame poverty, and we were able to lead normal and productive lives, contributing to society in many positive ways.

When you give to United Way, you’re helping to build our local network of unsung heroes – just like those three strangers who helped to change my life. So, as you consider your charitable giving this holiday season, please include United Way of Dane County. And know that for every dollar donated through United Way, the return is six times more in community impact! Because their army of volunteers – just like those that knocked on my door that Christmas morning long ago – are empowered through your generosity to help our neighbors who need it most.

You can be the one. The one to change someone’s life with a heartfelt donation. I encourage you to be a part of The Power of Caring. Working for All. Visit www.unitedwaydanecounty.org to give today.

United Way of Dane County Establishes Abundant Life Christian School Emergency and Recovery Fund

Madison, WI (December 17, 2024) – In response to the devastating and fatal shooting at Abundant Life Christian School (ALCS) yesterday, United Way of Dane County has established the Abundant Life Christian School Emergency and Recovery Fund. All funds raised will go directly to ALCS to support those impacted by the tragic events.

“Our hearts go out to every student, family and educator who has been affected by this act of violence,” says Renee Moe, President and CEO, United Way of Dane County. “While our collective reality is forever changed, United Way of Dane County stands ready to help our community recover. Please give with your hearts to support our neighbors through this difficult time. Every dollar counts.”

“We are overwhelmed by the community’s support and grateful for United Way’s assistance,” says Doug Butler, Principal of Abundant Life Christan School. “We will be announcing a transparent process for funds distribution once we understand clearly what is needed and how best to support our families and school.”

To give, visit www.unitedwaydanecounty.org or text help4ALCS to 40403. Always be cautious of suspicious websites and check the URL before entering personal information, and never click links in emails or texts from unknown senders.

United Way of Dane County 211 is here to help. Call or text 211 to get connected to resources including mental health supports, warm winter clothes for those evacuated from the scene, finding meals, counseling services and more.

Join us and Boys & Girls Club partners tonight at 6:00 pm at the State Capitol in front of the Vel Philips statue for a candlelight vigil honoring the victims.

For media inquiries and interview requests, please contact Ashley Manthei, Director of Communications, United Way of Dane County at (608) 416-0401 or Ashley.manthei@uwdc.org.

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About United Way of Dane County

United Way of Dane County mobilizes the caring power of our community to close gaps and open opportunities so all can thrive. From advancing health and education to strengthening livelihoods and local resilience, we connect people to possibility. With a mission to unite the community to achieve measurable results that change lives, we work collaboratively with local nonprofits, businesses, community leaders, donors and volunteers to multiply impact and solve big-picture issues no one person or organization can address alone. Together, we are The Power of Caring. Working for All. Visit www.unitedwaydanecounty.org to learn more.

United Way of Dane County 211 Achieves Inform USA Accreditation

Madison, WI (December 10, 2024) – United Way of Dane County 211 has received Inform USA (formerly known as AIRS) accreditation, after a rigorous 12-month review. The accreditation indicates we meet national standards and best practices for accurate, trustworthy care. 211 hosts the most comprehensive health and human services database in Dane County, making it easier for neighbors to find and access the resources they need during challenging times.

To achieve this accreditation, we underwent a five-phase process over the last year, including: a consultant’s report that addressed our agency’s compliance with national standards, a detailed review of our resource database, a secret shopper component, a survey of the organizations who are listed on our resource database, and a virtual site visit. This is the third time we’ve achieved this accreditation.

“We’re extremely proud of this hard-earned accreditation,” says Ed Wall, Director of 211, United Way of Dane County. “Our staff puts in the hard work every day to ensure as many of our community members as possible get connected to resources that can help – because no one should have to navigate the complicated network of social services alone.”

“United Way of Dane County 211 is the place to call in times of need,” says Renee Moe, President and CEO, United Way of Dane County. “This recognition proves how effectively our team maintains and supports this comprehensive and vital resource for our community. Whether you’re in need of food, housing, utilities assistance, addiction counseling or any number of other requests, you can call, text or use our app to connect with our dedicated 211 specialists. Through our campaign and generous donors, we work to ensure effective, coordinated services are available when neighbors call.”

Inform USA accredits approximately 125 agencies in the United States and Canada and is a 501c3 nonprofit agency. Accredited organizations include all type of information and referral providers, such as 211, Aging and Disability Resource Centers, Specialty I&R, etc. The size of organizations range from two staff to over 100, and services are available in many parts of North America.

For media inquiries and interview requests, please contact Ashley Manthei, Director of Communications, United Way of Dane County at (608) 416-0401 or Ashley.manthei@uwdc.org.

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About United Way of Dane County

United Way of Dane County mobilizes the caring power of our community to close gaps and open opportunities so all can thrive. From advancing health and education to strengthening livelihoods and local resilience, we connect people to possibility. With a mission to unite the community to achieve measurable results that change lives, we work collaboratively with local nonprofits, businesses, community leaders, donors and volunteers to multiply impact and solve big-picture issues no one person or organization can address alone. Together, we are The Power of Caring. Working for All. Visit www.unitedwaydanecounty.org to learn more.

United Way of Dane County and Madison Community Foundation Collaborate to Build the Capacity of Nonprofits Serving the Greater Madison Area

Madison, WI (Nov. 13, 2024) – United Way of Dane County today announced that it is joining Madison Community Foundation (MCF) as a Founding Partner for the new Irwin A. and Robert D. Goodman Nonprofit Center, providing ongoing annual funds to support the Center’s programming. This brings the Center closer to realizing its full potential for providing professional resources for nonprofit organizations in the Greater Madison area.

This investment deepens the long and growing collaboration between the two organizations in advancing a more vibrant and equitable community.

“Our organizations have been talking about this for a long time,” said Renee Moe, President and CEO of United Way of Dane County. “Cultivating a stronger nonprofit ecosystem and coordinating resources for greater impact comes right out of our strategic plan.”

“We’re honored to include United Way as a Founding Partner for the Goodman Nonprofit Center,” added Bob Sorge, President and CEO of MCF. “We both believe that collaboration is key to enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of the nonprofit field – and we’re reflecting that belief in our actions, by working together to make it happen.”
United Way is not using annual campaign resources for this gift. The commitment comes from an existing fund held at MCF that will be redirected to the Goodman Nonprofit Center. United Way’s support to the Center mirrors MCF’s support. Together with endowment gifts from the Irwin A. and Robert D. Goodman Foundation and Roots and Wings Foundation, these resources will provide the financial foundation for the nonprofit center, enabling it to rent space, hire staff and launch a professional leadership development program, an online resource library, and a calendar of professional development opportunities for the field.

“The programming for the Center will evolve and expand over time as additional endowed resources are raised to support that programming,” said Sorge.

Sharing a Long History, and a Vision for the Future

United Way and MCF have been serving Greater Madison for a combined 182 years. The organizations share similar visions for our community as a place where everyone who lives here thrives here, and function as strong partners that use complementary approaches to achieve this goal.

As part of this shared vision for the community, both MCF and United Way recognize the need to provide more professional support to the nonprofit organizations working in our community.

“Our investment in the Goodman Nonprofit Center is another way we can work together with MCF to support the nonprofits doing so much work for the people of Dane County,” Moe said. “The Center will help nonprofits become more effective, efficient and strategic. And it’s an honor to help extend the Goodman brothers’ legacy. Irwin and Bob continue to strengthen the community and nonprofits they loved.”

Wisconsin is one of only three states that does not have a statewide nonprofit association. The nonprofit center will help fill that void.

Laying the Foundations for Success

Nonprofits are essential to the well-being of the region and make up a sizable portion of the local economy — an estimated 11% of the workforce and billions of dollars in economic activity. The lack of a dedicated resource center leaves these organizations struggling to piece together the professional development they need to advance their missions and realize their full potential.

MCF will house the new center in a new suite of offices adjacent to MCF’s current offices in downtown Madison.

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About United Way of Dane County

United Way of Dane County mobilizes our community to action so all can thrive. From advancing health and education to strengthening livelihoods and local resilience, we harness the caring power of every neighbor to connect more people to possibility. With a mission to unite the community to achieve measurable results that change lives, we bring a comprehensive approach to every challenge, working collaboratively with local nonprofits, businesses, community leaders, donors and volunteers to multiply impact and solve big-picture issues no one person or organization can address alone. Together, we are The Power of Caring. Working for All. Visit www.unitedwaydanecounty.org to learn more.

About Madison Community Foundation

MCF works with donors and nonprofit organizations to engage Greater Madison in philanthropy to advance a more vibrant and equitable community. It serves more than 600 individual and 300 nonprofit fundholders, and in 2023, together with its fundholders, distributed $12.5 million into the community. To learn more visit www.madisongives.org.

About the Goodman Nonprofit Center

Building on MCF’s commitment to serving as a bridge between philanthropy and the nonprofit sector, the Goodman Nonprofit Center will support nonprofit organizations in becoming more effective, efficient and strategic in their work by offering training, resources and space for collaboration.

Contact:
Becki Fiegel, Communications Director
Madison Community Foundation
(office) 608-446-5934
(mobile) 312-320-3132
bfiegel@madisongives.org

Ashley Manthei, Director of Communications
United Way of Dane County
608-416-0401
Ashley.manthei@uwdc.org

United Way of Dane County Kicks Off 2024 Community Campaign

Madison, WI (August 22, 2024) – Yesterday, United Way of Dane County officially launched the 2024 Community Campaign with a fun-filled Community Kickoff event at Breese Stevens Field.

550 volunteers joined us for an afternoon of family-friendly activities, empowering them to learn more about our community’s needs and work together to make a difference. The group wrote 1,000 notes of encouragement for local students and packed 3,000 paper product packs, which will be distributed to our nonprofit partners at Community Action Coalition for South Central Wisconsin, Porchlight, Second Harvest Foodbank of Southern Wisconsin and WayForward Resources.

“Community Kickoff is always such an energizing event, “shared Larry Barton, President and CEO of Strang, United Way 2024 Campaign Chair. “Yesterday we really saw the caring power of the community come together to celebrate and create great impact. I’m optimistic that we can bring this energy forward and continue to have an engaging and successful campaign to raise much needed dollars for families across Dane County. We encourage everyone to participate to make our community as strong as it can possibly be.”

During the event, we announced this year’s fundraising goal of $17.3 million. The goal was built by analyzing community data, understanding the community’s greatest needs and responses, and leading conversations with hundreds of business and community leaders about how they want to support a coordinated approach to solving community problems.

“Last year, thanks to the incredible generosity of our community, the United Way Campaign provided programing for more than 73,000 neighbors striving to lead healthy, successful lives,” shared Renee Moe, President & CEO of United Way of Dane County. “We’re so proud of what we’ve accomplished together, but we also know there’s still so much to be done. The needs of the community outweigh the resources available, and we’ve got a strategic approach to address those needs. Now, it’s going to take all of us to build a thriving community. That’s why we’re calling on every Dane County resident to continue to be a part of the change – you can be one of the ones to step up and help make a lasting impact.”

At United Way of Dane County, we mobilize the caring power of our community so all can thrive. By bringing together those who can help us close gaps and open opportunities in our community, we unleash the collective spirit of caring to solve whole problems. Together, we are a powerful force – and we’re built one person at a time. That is the Power of Caring. Working for all.

To learn more about our Plan for Community Well-Being and how you can get involved in this year’s campaign visit www.unitedwaydanecounty.org. For media inquiries and/or to schedule an interview with members of our campaign team, please contact Ashley Manthei, Director of Communications, United Way of Dane County at (608) 416-0401 or Ashley.manthei@uwdc.org.

Thank you to our generous event sponsors: Strang, Breese Stevens Field, Madison Gas and Electric, National Guardian Life and WKOW. Additional thanks to our in-kind sponsors: Cherished Memories Photo Booth, Girl Scouts of Wisconsin – Badgerland Council, Kona Ice, Pepsi-Cola of Madison and Schoep’s Ice Cream.

About United Way of Dane County
United Way of Dane County mobilizes the caring power of our community to close gaps and open opportunities so all can thrive. From advancing health and education to strengthening livelihoods and local resilience, we connect people to possibility. With a mission to unite the community to achieve measurable results that change lives, we work collaboratively with local nonprofits, businesses, community leaders, donors and volunteers to multiply impact and solve big-picture issues no one person or organization can address alone. Together, we are The Power of Caring. Working for All. Visit www.unitedwaydanecounty.org to learn more.