Because of generous donors and dedicated volunteers — including so many from BlueCross — we can adapt and respond when needs arise. From providing dental and eye care at WellPartners, to pairing children with reading mentors, to helping families find safe housing, United Way is here because of your commitment. Together, we are making our community stronger.

This year marks 100 years for United Way of the Midlands. What does that mean to you? 

Reaching 100 years is humbling and inspiring. It means that, for a full century, neighbors have trusted United Way to be both a steady hand in times of crisis and a champion for opportunity. It’s a reminder that our work is about more than today. It’s about building a foundation of hope and strength for the future.

You’re celebrating 100 years of impact. How do you quantify that in terms of support? 

The numbers tell a great story. In just the last year, thanks to your support, United Way: 

• Delivered more than 5,800 patient visits through WellPartners dental and eye clinics. 
• Helped more than 2,300 students gain reading skills through the Midlands Reading Consortium. 
• Supported $83 million in housing projects, creating or repairing more than 500 homes.
• Helped hundreds of families break the cycle of poverty. 

Multiply these results over 100 years, and you see a legacy of change — change made possible because our partners have stood with us.

What does the future look like for United Way? The next 100 years? 

The challenges in our community are complex, but so is the compassion. United Way’s next 100 years will focus on breaking the cycle of poverty. We’ll invest in affordable housing, strengthen education, and build a healthier and more resilient Midlands. With partners like BlueCross, we are confident the next 100 years will be even better than the first.

What is a common myth or misconception about United Way? 

A lot of people think United Way is just a fundraising organization. But it is much more. Yes, we raise funds, but we also build partnerships, lead initiatives and come up with solutions to local problems. Programs like WellPartners, the Midlands Reading Consortium and Young Men United all began through United Way. 

When you give or volunteer, you are not just giving money or time. You are fueling measurable, life-changing impact in your own community.

How can we get involved with the work you do? 

It’s easy! There are plenty of ways to get involved. Make a pledge during your workplace campaign. Help pack school supplies. Read to a child. Every act matters. 

BlueCross employees set a strong example. From serving on our boards and committees to showing up at volunteer projects, you prove that leadership extends beyond the workplace.

Why do you do this work? 

For me, this work is deeply personal. I believe every person deserves a chance to thrive. I’ve seen firsthand how United Way makes that possible. I do this work because I know that people like you can change the trajectory of a child’s education, a family’s stability or a neighbor’s health. 

I am grateful to the employees of BlueCross. Your generosity, your volunteerism and your leadership remind me daily why this work matters. Together, we are writing the next chapter of our community’s story. It’s one filled with hope, resilience and opportunity for all.