United Way of Central Illinois will be hosting Community
Listening Sessions and a companion Community Survey to gather input directly
from residents across Sangamon and Menard Counties. These efforts aim to better
understand the challenges facing local families and identify where the greatest
needs and gaps exist. Then, United Way can continue to direct grant funding and
resources where they are most impactful.
While United Way has long worked with a wide network of
nonprofit partners to support youth opportunity, healthy communities, financial
security, and overall community resiliency, leaders at United Way recognize
that the landscape of need is always evolving. The listening sessions and
survey are part of a larger effort to take stock of what people truly need to
thrive today.
Hearing directly from the community
“We can’t create meaningful solutions unless we understand
the realities people are facing,” said Marne Fauser, CEO and President of United
Way of Central Illinois. “The listening sessions and survey are about opening
the door to honest conversation. We’re not just looking at data points; we are
listening to lived experiences.”
The initiative is designed to ensure that the voices of
everyday residents are heard, especially those who might not otherwise be
included in decision-making. United Way is encouraging individuals from all
walks of life, parents, seniors, young adults, nonprofit leaders, educators,
business owners, and more, to participate.
“We hope to reach more people who don’t typically raise their
hands in public forums,” said Penny McCarty, United Way Board Chair. “Whether
it’s through a quick survey response or joining a session in their
neighborhood, every voice matters.”
The Community Survey is currently open online and takes only
a few minutes to complete. You can find it here: www.uwcil.org/community-survey
It asks residents to share what challenges they or their neighbors face, which
services they value most, and what barriers prevent them from getting help.
Paper copies are also available for those without internet access, just call
the United Way office at 217-726-7000.
Identifying gaps and finding future investment
United Way’s mission is to bring people and resources
together to build a stronger, healthier, and more equitable community. But to
do that effectively, the organization needs a clear and up-to-date picture of
what’s working and what’s not.
“We know there are families struggling with housing, food
insecurity, mental health, and the cost of childcare,” said Marne Fauser. “But
we also know that these issues look different from one neighborhood to the
next. Our goal is to dig deeper and get a fuller understanding of where
services may be falling short or where new support is needed.”
The information gathered through the listening sessions and
survey will directly inform United Way’s grant-making process, partnerships,
and programming priorities in the years to come. It will also shape broader
community collaborations.
“We’re not just checking a box,” added Marne Fauser. “This
is about aligning our work with what the community tells us they need most.”
Upcoming listening sessions
In addition to the survey, United Way is hosting two
in-person Community Listening Sessions. These will be open to the general
public.
“These aren’t formal presentations, they are open
dialogues,” said Marne Fauser. “We’re inviting people to join us on a priority
walk, tell us about the issues facing our community, and add their input on
where United Way can help.”
How to get involved
Community members are encouraged to complete the survey
online at www.uwcil.org/community-survey.
United Way also invites you to attend the upcoming listening
sessions in August. Information is below and can be found on the United Way
website.
Tuesday, Aug. 19 at noon at Salvation Army, 1600 E
Clearlake Dr, Springfield. Light lunch provided.
Thursday, Aug. 21 at 5 p.m. at United Way office, 1999
Wabash Ave, Suite 107, Springfield. Refreshments provided.
“If you’ve ever wished someone would ask what your community
needs, this is your chance to speak up,” said Fauser. “We’re listening,
and we’re ready to act on what we hear.”