Highlights & Holiday Wishes

United Way Does the Homework for You

LIVE UNITED BLOG & Letter to the Editor

We love how the holiday season inspires philanthropy. In addition to volunteerism and donating tangible items, we recognize year-end giving is a meaningful way for donors to support causes and charities they're passionate about.

As you consider the many options available for your charitable gift, United Way Blackhawk Region lends its enthusiastic endorsement to any of our funded partner programs. In the highly competitive 2023-25 grant process, we relied on the expertise of 50 volunteers and local subject matter experts who spent 760+ hours to examine each application and vet programs thoroughly.

After three tiers of review, including a scored application, in-person presentation, and financial deep dive, programs that were awarded a United Way grant demonstrated measurable outcomes and effective delivery of services for the greatest community impact. In a nutshell, programs provided evidence they’re doing the work they say they’re doing and that it’s making a difference.

Programs that could not meet United Way’s high bar of accountability in this cycle were not recommended to receive a grant award by our volunteers. No single volunteer nor United Way staff makes these investment decisions. In the spirit of partnership, United Way refrains from sharing disparaging details about specific programs that may dissuade financial support of that organization. However, an agency’s year-end fundraising appeal that cites not receiving a grant from United Way to leverage more donations, may give donors good reason to be wary.

United Way’s funded partners tout their grant award as a seal of approval or badge of honor their supporters can take great pride in. Similarly, United Way trumpets earning its eighth consecutive four out of four-star rating by Charity Navigator and Candid’s Platinum Seal of Transparency (both the highest ratings possible) as a testament to our stewardship.

As responsible stewards of our community’s generosity, our volunteers have done the homework for you, and never take for granted your trust in us. Thank you to all who carefully consider their charitable contributions during this season of giving.

SEE Funded Partners

Non-Awards

As responsible stewards of our community's generosity, volunteers report these kinds of questions or concerns when recommending a non-award:

Identified the Agency's lack of sustainability
Red flags raised in Agency's audit, budget, & financial statements
Question the integrity or validity of the info presented
Expressed concerns for client or public safety
Reported Program's failure to demonstrate measurable outcomes or meet contingencies
Observed conflicting or misleading info during panel presentation and Q&A
Noted the Program didn't demonstrate a need for UWBR funding (operating with a surplus or has other resources available)
Expressed concerns about ineffectual programming

Volunteer Leadership Recognized

At the Nov. meeting of United Way Blackhawk Region (UWBR)'s Board of Directors, outgoing members were recognized for their dedicated service and leadership. Kayla Hiller (not pictured) rotates off the board after completing a three-year term. Scott Fischer (left) and Derek Hahn (right) completed two, three-year terms. Below, we've included only a few highlights of their accomplishments.

⭐ Kayla Hiller, Nowlan, served as a community grant review panelist and former member of the Campaign Cabinet; Kayla also provided legal review for UWBR's official rules of the GIVE & WIN Sweepstakes.

⭐ Scott Fischer, Baker Tilly, served as Treasurer for three years, as well as volunteered on the Executive and Finance Committee(s). Scott has provided financial review for grant cycles, and was a member of the Campaign Cabinet and served as its previous Chair.

⭐ Derek Hahn, Wells Fargo Advisors, has Chaired UWBR's board since 2022 and served on both the Executive and Finance Committee(s). Along with his wife LaSonda, and friends John and Becky Wong, he was also a co-Campaign Champion in 2021.

SEE the Board

Shop UNITED

For the 4th year in a row, Urban Boutique is graciously donating 20% of its sales to United Way Blackhawk Region. Beginning on Sunday, December 17th with a Facebook LIVE SALE and continuing with online and in-store sales through Saturday, December 23rd, your purchase is a win-win!

Urban Boutique offers women's fashion for every shape and size! Find the perfect gift or stylish outfit for your holiday event at locally-owned, Urban Boutique.

2640 Milton Avenue, Janesville
(608) 314-6398
urbanboutiquejanesville.com

Thank you for your generous support, Urban Boutique!

SEE Urban Boutique on Facebook

Campaign Envelopes

As we approach year-end, and most workplace campaigns wrap up, we eagerly await campaign results. Please tally and seal your campaign envelope and contact Erin Davis at 608.314.8421 for pick-up.

If you haven't kicked off your United Way campaign, don't worry - there is still time to do so! The GIVE & WIN Sweepstakes deadline is 4 p.m. on Feb. 15, 2024.

Wishing you a happy and healthy holiday season!

Happy holidays, from your United Way Blackhawk Region Team:

Mary Fanning-Penny, President & CEO
Denise Peters-Kauihou, Vice President
Laura Nilson, Finance Director
Erin Davis, Director of Corporate Campaigns

Building Sale

After owning the property for 35+ years and underutilizing its spaced compared to the size of our staff and operations, United Way Blackhawk Region has made the decision to put its building up for sale. This decision was not made hastily, and due diligence was conducted to ensure we’re making the right decision for our organization, community partners, and other stakeholders.

READ the Media Release

SEE FAQs

Reflecting on Our Impact

United Way Blackhawk Region is creating opportunities for all people to thrive, thanks to your support. We've shared a few highlights for 2023 and hope you’ll see how diligently we continue to work to keep our thumb on the pulse of our communities and to meet the needs of those most vulnerable in the Blackhawk Region.

We wish you a joyous holiday season and happy new year!

GIVE today!

United Way's 211

The holidays can be a tough time, remember United Way's 211 can provide the assistance needed to brighten the season. Someone is standing by to talk to you 24/7/365 — simply dial 211. You may also text your zip code to 898211, or download the NEW 211 Wisconsin App wherever you get your apps.

Nonprofits: if there are seasonal or holiday changes to your programs, please be sure to update 211 so the trained Specialists provide accurate referrals to neighbors in need of resources.

LEARN More about 211

2024 Sponsorship Menu

A variety of sponsorship opportunities are available to promote your business and brand with United Way in 2024.

Act fast! United Way Blackhawk Region has more than 150 corporate partners and many of the sponsorship opportunities listed are limited and will be determined on a first-come basis. Once selections are made, complete the fillable form on the back page and email it to Erin Davis.

Thank you for your partnership!

VIEW 2024 Sponsorship Options

Accountability

United Way Blackhawk Region (UWBR) fights for the health, education, and financial stability of every person in every community. For another consecutive year, our sound fiscal management practices, commitment to accountability and transparency have earned UWBR top ratings from the nation's largest charity evaluators. UWBR adheres to standards set forth by United Way Worldwide and remains a member in good standing.