When challenges arise, we come together as a source of hope. I feel incredibly grateful to be part of a community that shows such compassion and selflessness. My role as Campaign Chair for this year’s United Way of Midland County community campaign has given me a front-row seat to this spirit in action.

What makes our community truly special is the generosity of its people – dedicating their time, resources and talents to ensure vital programs are available for anyone who needs them. A heartfelt thank you goes out to the individuals, businesses, corporations, foundations and non-profits who have supported the campaign thus far.

As we wrap up week eleven, I’m excited to share that we are reporting pledges totaling $4,127,639, or 90% of our $4.6 million goal. This is an amazing accomplishment, but in order to continue offering basic services that are essential to individuals in need, we still have work to do. Great news, there’s still plenty of time to get involved.

We have so many local opportunities to connect, understand each other and drive positive change. Change begins by listening.

I encourage you to explore the challenges our neighbors face and how this community provides support. My experience with United Way and its partner agencies has opened my eyes to the incredible work being done. These organizations create a powerful network of support and solutions, collaborating to build a safety net for those in need.

It’s a reminder that any of us could find ourselves in a similar situation. Your colleagues, neighbors and friends all go through something in life that can be devastating to their wellbeing in some way, and it’s important that resources are available when help is needed.

United Way supports agencies that feed the elderly who are unable to drive to a grocery store, help families to stay in their homes when they’ve had a temporary financial crisis, and provide affordable childcare for single parents who want and need to work but can’t cover the rising cost. These are the realities in our community. I’m here to ask for your support so we can continue to live in a community that thrives.

Giving is easy, and every dollar truly counts.

  • $1 per week provides over 200 pounds of nutritious food for a struggling family
  • $5 per week provides a gas card for five cancer patients to ensure they can travel for specialized care
  • $10 per week provides hands-on job skills training for 2 individuals
  • $20 per week provides materials to build and install a ramp, making a home more accessible
  • $30 per week provides 15 nights of shelter and counseling for a survivor of violence and their child
  • $50 per week provides 8 students with a reading tutor scholarship

And those are just a few examples of how your investment can generate impact.

If you haven’t had the chance to contribute to this year’s campaign, I invite you to join me in making a difference by donating at unitedwaymidland.org/donate. Every gift truly counts and sparks a ripple effect of change.

I celebrate your commitment to changing lives here in Midland County. Thank you for helping us provide hope for the future.

Tim Lacey
Vice President and General Manager, DuPont Shelter Solutions
2024 United Way of Midland County Campaign Chair

About United Way of Midland County

The mission of United Way is to unite our community to improve lives. They amplify individual passion to take on our toughest challenges, together. They don’t focus on a single issue because change is bigger than one organization or program. They partner with nonprofits and invest in programs that show measurable outcomes – every year. UWMC has been a champion of ALICE research, innovation and action since 2014. Many funded programs directly impact ALICE families, lending a hand-up to help families have access to basic needs.

How to Make a Contribution 

  • Consider a first-time donation. Every gift makes an impact, no donation is too small.
  • Renew or increase your support. Visit unitedwaymidland.org/donate to make your pledge today.
    • Donations can also be mailed to:
      • United Way of Midland County
      • 115 Jerome St
      • Midland, MI 48640
  • Spread the Word. Encourage your friends, family, coworkers and neighbors to get involved and give back this holiday season.