Many of our neighbors grappled this past year with the effects of inflation, as prices increased rapidly for school supplies, food, housing and nearly every other necessity. As with most societal challenges, our local communities of color have felt this economic pain most acutely.

Nonetheless, we drove progress toward our Rise United 2030 community goals and delivered on our commitment to bridge opportunity gaps. And with new challenges in mind, we continued to adapt and innovate, expanding existing initiatives and launching new programs to drive transformational change in our region.

We continued to partner closely with corporate leaders to drive strategic impact. These bright spots included new investments in United Way targeted impact initiatives such as United for Schools, co-created with our Education Council, launched the Emerging Leaders donor network and produced the first-of-its-kind community leadership program, Think Like a Futurist.

Our impact over the past year would not have been possible without the inspiring leadership and unwavering dedication of our board chair for the 2022-23 fiscal year, Mara Downing, Vice President, Global Brand & Communications, John Deere; as well as our current board chair Caitlin Russell, President, Russell.

We’re calling on each of you to pledge your confidence, your voice and your support for achievement of the Rise United 2030 community goals to drive lasting change in education, income and health. Thank you for your commitment to creating access and opportunity for everyone in the Quad Cities to thrive.