2025-2026 Campaign Letter from Executive Director

Kendra Sorensen

Dear Community Members,

In 2025, the Marshalltown Area United Way (MAUW) proudly celebrates 95 years of uniting people and resources to create lasting change. This historic year comes with a bold challenge—raising $900,000 to sustain and grow the essential programs our residents rely on every day!

For nearly a century, we’ve partnered with local entities to co-create solutions to people's most pressing challenges. We take a comprehensive approach, listening and responding to local needs.

With our community partners, MAUW creates pathways to promote healthy communities, expand youth opportunities, strengthen financial security, and build community resiliency.

Last year alone, your generosity made a powerful impact:

• 6,684 young learners received educational support services
• 2,930 people participated in health initiatives and received preventive or mental wellness care
• 5,062 individuals accessed job training or financial planning assistance, laying the foundation for a brighter future.

These numbers represent real people—neighbors, coworkers, and friends—whose lives are stronger because we stood united.

The Need in Marshall County - This past year’s 2-1-1 data shows that many individuals and families continue to face challenges, with the greatest needs including housing and shelter, utility assistance, food insecurity, along with aging and disability resources.

The 2025 ALICE Report provides further insight. ALICE— Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed —represents households that earn above the Federal Poverty Level but still cannot afford the basic cost of living. While some progress has been made, many households continue to struggle as wages fail to keep pace with rising costs for essentials like housing, childcare, food, transportation, health care, and more.

The data reflects that of Marshall County's 15,546 households in 2023:

• 11% earned below the federal poverty level (FPL) and 24% were ALICE, in households that earned above the FPL but not enough to afford the basics.
• Together, 35% of the households in Marshall County were below the ALICE threshold (poverty + ALICE divided by the total households).

How You Can Help - Last year, more than 15,000 residents were uplifted by the 30 programs and services provided by our 25 local Partner Agencies. This work is possible because of donors like you. And with 98.8% of your contribution staying right here in Marshall County, you can be certain your gift makes a direct local impact!

You can give by mailing your donation or visiting our office at 709 S. Center St., Suite 135. Or donate online at www.unitedwaymarshalltown.org by clicking the “Donate” button in the upper right corner.

Thank you for the generosity you’ve shown over the years and for helping us create a healthier, stronger, more equitable Marshall County! United is the Way™.

Sincerely,

Kendra Sorensen