There’s no denying it: We are living in uncertain times.
At the national level, we see policy debates, funding instability and a growing sense of unpredictability. But here’s the truth: We don’t need to wait on Washington to make a difference. We don’t need to be paralyzed by what we can’t control.
In Centre County, we have something powerful. We have each other. We have neighbors helping neighbors. And we have Centre County United Way, an anchor of stability, compassion and action.
When families are struggling, when nonprofits are stretched thin, when uncertainty hangs in the air—we remain steady. We remain focused. And we remain committed to one thing: our mission to improve lives by mobilizing the caring power of our community.
You will hear us talk about “Thriving United”—because we know that a strong community isn’t about surviving tough times; it’s about ensuring every individual and family can flourish. We don’t want to simply respond to crisis. We want to build a community where everyone has opportunities to thrive.
Thriving means dignity, connection and opportunity for all—and we believe this community can make it happen.
Imagine a Centre County where:
- Every child starts school ready to learn.
- Working families can afford a safe home and their basic needs.
- No one goes hungry or feels forgotten.
- Seniors are cared for and connected.
- Local nonprofits have the resources to respond, adapt and meet our community’s needs.
This vision is not only possible, it’s already happening. But we can’t do it alone.
That’s why this year, we’re asking our community to rise with us – not just with financial support, but with renewed confidence and commitment.
We know donors have favorite organizations. We encourage that support! We also ask that you set aside a gift for Centre County United Way. Because your donations fund the essential programs that make up our community’s safety net. Our partner agencies apply for CCUW funding that goes to specific programs, to fill in the critical and urgent gaps that they can’t cover financially.
This campaign isn’t about equal gifts. It’s about shared responsibility. If everyone gives at a level that’s meaningful to them, together, we will succeed.
Your donation is an investment and a message. It says: We believe in Centre County. We believe in our neighbors. No one should face hardship alone.
Let’s not focus on the uncertainty at the federal level. Let’s focus on the certainty we can create—right here, together. We know our needs. We know our neighbors. We know how to build solutions that last. And we know the power of Centre Countians!
And while we can’t always control what’s happening in the headlines, we can write our own local story. One of resilience. One of unity. One of hope.
So today, I invite you to stand with us. Give what you can and perhaps give again! Spread the word. Invite others to join us. Let’s show what’s possible when a community doesn’t just come together but thrives together.
Let’s be constant in a world full of change. Let’s be the light for someone who’s struggling. Let’s prove, once again, that when we unite around a shared mission, we rise together.
UNITED is the WAY.
For more information about Centre County United Way visit ccunitedway.org.
