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Across all four priority areas, United Way’s work is grounded in a deep commitment to supporting ALICE households- those who are working but still struggling to afford basic needs.
ALICE is not a small or isolated population- it represents a significant portion of our community. These are our essential workers, caregivers, and neighbors who are one unexpected expense away from crisis.
By aligning our strategies around Youth Opportunity, Community Resiliency, Healthy Communities, and Financial Security, we are addressing the interconnected challenges ALICE families face every day.
Because, United is the Way.
Impact Areas
Too many children in our community- especially those in ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) households and underserved neighborhoods- face barriers that limit their ability to succeed in school and in life. Without strong early foundations, these gaps can widen over time, impacting academic achievement, career pathways, and lifelong well-being.
United Way of Central Illinois is committed to ensuring every child builds a strong foundation for lifelong learning. We invest in programs that support early childhood development, literacy, academic success, and youth development from birth through elementary school.
Our goal: Each year from 2026 through 2029, 70% of children in United Way-funded Youth Opportunity programs will meet or show measurable progress toward key milestones, including kindergarten readiness and grade-level reading and math proficiency by third grade.
This means…
- Children enter school ready to learn and succeed.
- Students receive consistent academic support throughout the year.
- Youth build confidence, social-emotional skills, and leadership abilities.
- Families- especially ALICE families- are equipped to support their children’s success.
Every child deserves the opportunity to thrive- regardless of their zip code or household income. By investing in youth today, we are strengthening the future of our entire community.
Find out more about our grant partners that focus on Youth Opportunity here.
Access to affordable, timely mental and behavioral health support remains out of reach for many in our community- especially for ALICE households, seniors, and underserved populations. Barriers such as cost, transportation, and stigma often prevent individuals from getting the help they need.
United Way of Central Illinois is working to ensure individuals and families can access the support and guidance needed to navigate mental and behavioral health challenges.
Our goal: Each year from 2026 through 2029, 75% of individuals in United Way-funded health programs will be connected to needed services, and 50% will report increased confidence in managing their mental well-being.
This means…
- Individuals are connected to mental and behavioral health services more quickly.
- Families receive support navigating complex systems of care.
- Seniors remain healthy, connected, and independent.
- Youth develop coping skills and emotional resilience early in life.
Health and well-being should not depend on income or circumstance. By addressing these gaps- especially for ALICE families- we are building a healthier, more connected community for all.
Find out more about our grant partners that focus on Healthy Communities here.
Many hardworking individuals and families in our region- especially those in ALICE households- struggle to make ends meet despite being employed. Rising costs, limited wages, and unexpected expenses create ongoing financial instability and make it difficult to plan for the future.
United Way of Central Illinois is focused on helping individuals and families achieve and maintain financial stability through education, employment support, housing access, and skill-building opportunities.
Our goal: Each year from 2026 through 2029, 70% of individuals in United Way–funded Financial Security programs will achieve at least one key milestone toward stability, such as securing housing, maintaining employment, or improving financial management skills.
This means…
- Individuals and families secure safe, stable, and affordable housing.
- People gain the skills and support needed to obtain and maintain employment.
- Households improve budgeting, savings, and financial decision-making.
- ALICE families move from survival to stability- and toward long-term success.
When individuals achieve financial stability, the entire community benefits- from reduced strain on emergency systems to a stronger, more resilient local economy.
Find out more about our grant partners that focus on Financial Security here.
For many ALICE households, a single unexpected crisis- job loss, illness, natural disaster, or family violence- can quickly spiral into long-term instability. Without immediate support and clear pathways to recovery, short-term emergencies can have lasting consequences.
United Way of Central Illinois strengthens our community’s ability to respond to and recover from crisis by supporting a coordinated network of frontline services that provide both immediate relief and connections to longer-term support.
Our goal: Each year from 2026 through 2029, 60% of individuals accessing crisis services will be connected to resources beyond immediate emergency support.
This means…
- Individuals and families receive rapid access to shelter, food, and safety.
- Crisis situations become turning points toward stability- not long-term setbacks.
- Survivors of violence and trauma find safety, healing, and ongoing support.
- Community partners work together to streamline services and improve outcomes.
Crisis can affect anyone- but it disproportionately impacts ALICE families living paycheck to paycheck. A resilient community ensures no one has to navigate these challenges alone.
Find out more about our grant partners that focus on Community Resiliency here.