Mike Wolanin | The Republic United Way of Bartholomew County President Mark Stewart welcomes guests to the organization’s annual meeting at The Common in Columbus, Ind., Tuesday, June 14, 2022.
COLUMBUS, Ind. — The nonprofit United Way of Bartholomew County campaign, hampered still by some presentations limited to Zoom, has finished at $4.17 million — about $300,000 short of its goal, but still leading the state in per-capita giving and finishing in the nation’s top 10 percent in that category.
Mark Stewart, United Way president, acknowledged mixed feelings about the figure because the shortfall means about a 10 percent trim in allocations to 15 United Way agencies operating 32 programs. Plus, because of donor-designated giving, United Way money also will go to about 90 other agencies, including those beyond Bartholomew County.
Leaders are still tabulating what percentage of money that will remain in Bartholomew County.
Because other, separate support covers elements such as United Way operating expenses and salaries, all donations go to the cause. And the local United Way still boasts the highest rating of accountability from agencies such as Charity Navigator.
The United Way will highlight the campaign’s bright spots at a public meeting at 4 p.m. June 20 at The Commons in downtown Columbus.
On the other side of Stewart’s disappointment in the campaign figure is gratitude.
“We’re still all very fortunate to live in a very generous community,” Stewart said. “We, of course, are experiencing some challenges. But the entire United Way network relies heavily on in-person presentations (for impact). So all United Ways nationwide are experiencing this.”
For the complete story, see Thursday’s Republic.
