United Way of Sheboygan County closes another Campaign

United Way of Sheboygan County (UWSC) is committing to investing $1.85 million in funding for local programming and community impact initiatives in 2023-2024 after closing its 2022-2023 fundraising campaign. (Click here for a full listing of program investments.)

“We are grateful to all our donors, volunteers and community partners who supported this year's campaign. The generosity of our community continues to shine in times of need,” said Kate Baer, executive director of UWSC.  

The 2022-2023 campaign came in lower than previous years, but United Way is not alone in experiencing fundraising challenges brought on by the effects of the economic landscape. 

“As a pledge-based funding model, our Community Action Team and board of directors have unique challenges when making funding commitments,” said Baer. “Less funding translates to less financial support to valuable partner programs and community impact initiatives.”   

UWSC’s annual campaign is a critical source of funding for 44 community programs and three impact initiatives in the areas of education, health, financial stability, crisis response and volunteerism. 

Through the collective work of UWSC’s partner agencies, highlighted 2022 outcomes from the last investment year include: 

• 68% youth (K-12) maintained or improved school performance 
• 60% of children who received a developmental screening identified a concern & received early intervention services 
• 79% of youth (K-12) improved their mental health 
• 67% of adults who received financial services improved their financial standing 

“If you are asking yourself how you can make lasting change in the community, the first thing I think of is United Way,” said Deidre Martinez, board chair of UWSC. “United Way has always been a vital force for change. As community needs evolve, United Way will continue to adapt their investment approach to better respond those needs.”  

UWSC’s 2022-2024 strategic plan reflects a forward-thinking approach to the ever-evolving economic climate. Strategic initiatives and areas of focus include strengthening impact investment strategy; increasing community and donor engagement; enhancing operational capabilities; and advancing diversity, equity and inclusion work within the nonprofit sector. 

“To prepare for the upcoming campaign and in alignment with our strategic plan, we will be implementing additional strategies to further engage the public in our work,” said Katelyn Piper, director of community development. “The economy will always present challenges, but people are always looking for ways to make a difference. United Way is your chance to be a part of the solution.”  

UWSC remains committed to being a data-driven and community-owned organization, supporting programs focused on helping those in need.  

"We know that there is still much work to be done, but we are confident that, together, we will make a real difference,” said Baer. “Make sure to save the date for United Way’s 2023-2024 Campaign Kickoff and Day of Caring on September 21, 2023.” 

To learn more about UWSC’s impact, visit www.usofsc.org or contact Executive Director Kate Baer by emailing kate@uwofsc.org or calling 920-458-3425.