Tuesday, December 3, is considered Giving Tuesday, the biggest day of the year in nonprofit fundraising. The timing of Giving Tuesday dovetails with the last week of the 2024 United Way campaign at Notre Dame. Here’s something you may not know: When you invest in United Way, you are giving to several nonprofits.
United Way is not a typical nonprofit. Its purpose is to take a “united” approach to address a wide range of needs linked to poverty, including education, financial stability, and health. After raising the funds and with careful consideration and vetting, United Way then distributes money to partner agencies that address facets of these complicated problems. It’s this “united way” of tackling interrelated challenges that gives people a hand up.
Earlier this year, Jamie Cox began his role as president and CEO of United Way of St. Joseph County.
“I have seen firsthand the toll of rising costs on our residents. Even a small, unexpected expense can lead to a crisis for too many families. The slightest increase in grocery prices, an unplanned auto repair, or an emergency medical bill can bring hardworking families to their knees. That’s why we’re launching new initiatives focused on supporting St. Joseph County’s families who live paycheck to paycheck. Through proactive intervention programs, we aim to catch financial challenges early, keeping families stable, employed, and out of the cycle of poverty. Collectively, we can protect our most vulnerable families, children, and seniors.”
This fall, people employed by businesses and institutions throughout St. Joseph County have taken part in workplace giving campaigns for United Way. Because Notre Dame is the county’s largest employer, it may not surprise you that historically Notre Dame employees donate more to the agency than any local workforce. Our individual donations, whether $1 or $100 per pay period, make a difference to our neighbors.
You can find more information about the campaign at unitedway.nd.edu or give directly to United Way of St. Joseph County.