We’ve doubled down on our core focus: improving the lives of hardworking but struggling ALICE families (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed). When we think of financial hardship, we often picture those in extreme poverty—families struggling with homelessness or unable to afford necessities. But there is another significant group in our communities, one that works hard every day yet still struggles to make ends meet.

In Northwest Indiana, ALICE represents a significant portion of our population. These families work hard—often at multiple jobs—but still struggle to keep up with the cost of living. They earn too much to qualify for many assistance programs but not enough to cover essential expenses like housing, childcare, transportation, and healthcare. One unexpected expense—a car repair, medical bill, or reduced work schedule—can trigger a financial crisis.

The harsh truth is that more than one in four hardworking families is on the edge of survival. These families face impossible choices every day: put gas in the car to get to work, or buy their child’s cough medicine? United Way Northwest Indiana believes that no working family should be forced to make these types of decisions.

Our signature Level Up program provides personalized support, job training, and financial coaching. It isn’t one-size-fits-all—it’s about meeting people where they are and creating paths to long-term success. By equipping individuals with education, workforce connections, and financial literacy, we empower them to break free from financial instability. To date, 250 participants have completed the program, with 251 currently working with our navigators and 20-30 new participants joining monthly. Graduates typically see at least a 20% increase in household income and improved credit scores, leaving the program positioned to thrive and on the path to stability and home ownership.

We’re expanding our Charity Tracker network, which currently coordinates services between more than 60 partner agencies. Since launch, our partners have provided over $20 million in assistance to more than 80,000 individuals.

In the coming months, we’ll enhance our regional volunteer coordination capabilities and strengthen our data analysis to ensure resources have maximum impact.

The challenges facing our communities—from food insecurity to mental health needs, from affordable housing to educational achievement gaps—require sustained, collaborative efforts. United Way Northwest Indiana is uniquely positioned to coordinate these efforts and drive meaningful change. We’re building on our successful merger by deepening our community partnerships, expanding our donor base, and implementing innovative solutions to persistent challenges.

As we mark three years since our historic merger, we renew our commitment to being a catalyst for positive change across Northwest Indiana. We invite everyone—individuals, businesses, and organizations—to join us in this vital work. Together, we can build a stronger, more equitable region where every person has the opportunity to thrive.

Our merger was more than an organizational change—it was a promise to our communities. Today, with the continued support of our generous donors and dedicated partners, we are fulfilling that promise, creating positive change that reaches every corner of Northwest Indiana. United, we break down barriers for struggling families. United, we provide paths to financial stability. United, we build hope and strong communities.

We believe that thriving communities begin with thriving families, and your support of United Way Northwest Indiana makes that possible. You are part of the solution. Together, we can make a difference for families in our community.

United is the Way.