United Way of South Central Nebraska posts records for fundraising and programming

HASTINGS, Neb. — A Nebraska non-profit is celebrating a record year.

The United Way of South Central Nebraska announced at its annual meeting on Tuesday that it collected more support dollars and offered more programming than ever before over the last year. The organization listed its total revenue at $1,330,000. It raised $625,212 in campaign contributions, exceeding its goal of $600,000. The charity also received a $750,000 grant from the Nebraska Department of Economic Development to implement the Bridging Forward initiative.

“Leading the charge and inspiring the change isn’t just our campaign slogan, it’s what United Way does every day. For more than 80 years, United Way has led the charge to make Adams, Clay, Nuckolls and Webster counties a better place for all to live,” said Jodi Graves, Executive Director of United Way of South Central Nebraska.

The Hastings-based United Way chapter launched Bridging Forward last year. The new program aims to reduce poverty by 30% by 2030.

“We truly want to thank everyone that supported United Way over the past year,” said Jason Ackles, United Way Board President. “United Way continues to gain momentum and experience with people taking note of what’s happening in South Central Nebraska. None of this would be possible without our amazing donors, outstanding volunteers and our core values that have followed us the last 82 years.”

The United Way of South Central Nebraska also approved the 2023 Slate of Officers. President – Jason Ackles, GTA Insurance Group; Vice-President – David Long, Mary Lanning Healthcare; Treasurer – Angie Pinkerman, MNB Bank.

In addition, the following new Directors were approved for the United Way Board of Directors – James Callaway – Thermo King; Jason Davis – Central Community College – Hastings; Casey Molifua – Hastings College; Cristian Perez – Ellerbrock-Norris; Lauren Slaughter – Heartwell Renewables.