(Franklin/Ripley Counties, IN) – As America celebrates its 250th anniversary, United Way of Franklin & Ripley Counties is inviting local residents to be part of something meaningful: building stronger, more connected communities for generations to come.
Through its United for 250 giving campaign, United Way hopes to inspire 250 individuals, families, and businesses to contribute $250 each, raising $62,500 to strengthen its work throughout Franklin and Ripley counties.
But the campaign is more than reaching a fundraising goal.
“Strong communities don’t happen by accident,” said Kelly Bulmer, Executive Director of United Way of Franklin & Ripley Counties. “They’re built by people who care about where they live, who recognize the needs around them, and who are willing to be part of the solution. That’s what United for 250 is all about.”
For more than a decade, United Way of Franklin & Ripley Counties has worked alongside schools, nonprofits, businesses, and community partners to address local challenges, connect resources, and create opportunities for individuals and families.
Its work includes helping children begin kindergarten with confidence, supporting families facing food insecurity, providing warm coats for children, investing in local nonprofit organizations, and connecting people with resources during times of crisis.
The importance of these local connections became especially clear following the devastating August flooding in Franklin County.
Through its relationships with Indiana United Ways and other partners, United Way secured $105,500 in additional disaster relief funding to help families recover. This support builds upon years of bringing resources into the two-county region, including more than $400,000 in additional funding during the COVID-19 pandemic and $20,000 in additional community support funding this year.
“When a community faces a challenge, having strong relationships and trusted organizations already in place makes a difference,” Bulmer said. “We’ve seen firsthand how those connections help bring resources into our communities that might not otherwise be available. But building that kind of capacity takes ongoing support.”
United for 250 is an invitation to invest in that capacity.
As part of the campaign, United Way is also growing its United Way Community Builders network, bringing together individuals who want to stay informed, share ideas, discover opportunities to serve, and help shape stronger communities.
While the campaign encourages gifts of $250 in recognition of America’s milestone anniversary, individuals are welcome to contribute at any level and become part of the Community Builders
network.
“Our hope is that people see this as more than making a donation,” Bulmer added. “It’s an opportunity to be part of something bigger, to invest in the place we call home and help ensure
our communities have the relationships, resources, and support they need, not just today, but for the future.”
Residents, businesses, and community organizations are encouraged to join the United for 250 campaign and learn more about becoming a Community Builder.
To learn more or contribute, visit https://givebutter.com/united-for-250-4cv5ng.
(United Way of Franklin & Ripley Counties press release)
