SIDNEY — United Way fights for the health, education, and financial stability of every person in Shelby County. The Shelby County United Way continually identifies, evaluates, and makes possible the human services needed in our community. They have been instrumental in helping lead discussions and providing funds to help in the creation of many services in our community.
One example of living out this mission was the creation of the Workforce Partnership Career Coach position. The United Way sees the importance of this position and helps fund the Career Coach. Kelly Edwards helps our young adult, high school seniors by connecting them with local jobs that provide living wages and benefits to ensure financial stability for the graduating student.
Shelby County is the No. 1 county in Ohio for participation in Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library. Brainstorming meetings on how to bring this incredible program to Shelby County took place around the United Way board room table with community leaders including representatives from Wilson Hospital and Shelby County Libraries. This program will have long term benefits for our community through gains in literacy among our youth.
Mercy Mission House (MMH) Emergency Shelter opened their doors on February 14, 2022. The United Way provided the lead gift of $150,000 to help purchase the building that would become MMH. Since opening their doors, MMH has helped over 125 people. MMH houses close to 30 people at a time and creates a unique individual plan to help them on their journey to self-sufficiency.
Inflation and the market have impacted everyone, including Shelby County United Way partner agencies. In order to continue the level of needed services in our community, SCUW is challenged to raise even more in the 2022 United for Impact campaign. To donate, go to www.shelbycountyunitedway.org and click on Campaign Updates and then DONATE or text SHELBY to 40403.
The Shelby County United Way is a local 501c3 non-profit organization that has earned the highest rating from Charity Navigator eight out of the past nine years. Monies raised in the annual campaign are invested locally under the leadership and direction of our local volunteer Board of Directors and Community Allocation Volunteers. Through the fourth week of the campaign, the campaign total is $320,318. Donors can make payroll contributions with participating employers or make a one time or reoccurring donation by visiting www.shelbycountyunitedway.org or text SHELBY to 40403. Checks can be made payable to Shelby County United Way and mailed to P.O. Box 751, Sidney.
