Thanks to the generosity and caring spirit of the Omaha-Council Bluffs metro, United Way of the Midlands (UWM) is proud to share that it raised more than $30 million during the fiscal year that ended on June 30, 2025. This vital funding strengthens a network of 150 local programs, initiatives and direct services – helping individuals continue to access essential resources during times of uncertainty.
“Together, our community continues to show what’s possible when we care for one another,” said Shawna Forsberg, UWM president and CEO. “As changes in the funding environment create new pressures on our support systems, United Way is honored to serve as a trusted partner, adapting alongside our community and inspiring more people to get involved and make a difference.”
The 2024-2025 campaign effort was led by Campaign Chairs Randy and Candace Wood and the team at Lindsay Corporation. Thanks to their passionate leadership, UWM surpassed Mr. Warren Buffett’s Tocqueville Society Challenge – reaching 409 members and increasing his generous match of UWM’s campaign. These results reflect the generosity of thousands of individual United Way donors, 500 community partners, philanthropic foundations, government entities, our Board of Directors and the Top 100 campaigns.
Beyond the dollars raised, UWM continued to demonstrate why it is one of the strongest local United Ways in the country, with a 93% efficiency ratio, deep understanding of community needs and strong cross-sector partnerships. During the year, UWM launched several innovative programs and initiatives — including the Military and Family Helpline in partnership with Offutt Air Force Base, the Greener Together investment fund with OPPD, the inaugural Volunteer Appreciation Awards and the Volunteers United group to engage more community members in meaningful service.
“The work that’s happening here in the Omaha-Council Bluffs metro is something to be celebrated,” said Angela Williams, president and CEO of United Way Worldwide. “At this moment in time, when families are experiencing different pressures, it is important to know that people care. It’s about neighbors helping neighbors, and there is no better way to help your neighbor in need than to get involved with United Way of the Midlands.”
Transforming Care for Community into Results that Make a Difference
Through its partnerships, investments and programs, UWM has the goal of providing 12 million services next year to address social and economic disparities across our community – focused in four key areas:
–Healthy Community – Improving health and well-being for all
–Youth Opportunity – Helping young people realize their full potential
-Financial Security – Building financial stability and strength
-Community Resiliency – Addressing urgent needs today to advance a better tomorrow
Collaboration is at the heart of this work. Through funding partnerships like the Community Investment Fund, the Karnett Trust and Greener Together, UWM works alongside nonprofit partners to strengthen our community’s ability to meet growing needs efficiently and effectively. This funding is critical to maintaining the strong system of nonprofit programs that local families rely on when resources are stretched thin.
The 211 Helpline continues to serve as a trusted, one-stop resource for information and referrals to thousands of programs and services, fielding more than 315,000 contacts last year. In addition to serving as an Aging and Disability Resource Center, 211 supports programs like Unite Nebraska and assists Douglas County residents with weatherization applications — ensuring people can access vital supports quickly and efficiently.
In addition to investments in area programs and information and referral services, UWM also fills critical gaps for families and individuals. Initiatives like the Court Referral Community Service Program, Save Our Seniors, Help Me Grow Nebraska and the Military and Family Helpline help vulnerable neighbors overcome barriers and connect to the resources they need.
Additionally, JAG Nebraska equips more than 4,000 students annually with life skills, leadership training and career development opportunities that prepare them for success in school and beyond. Launched in 2019 at three sites, JAG is now in 87 programs statewide thanks to strong support from Governor Jim Pillen and the Nebraska Department of Labor. With a 97% graduation rate and more than 2,300 student engagement activities last year, JAG continues to build a confident, skilled workforce for Nebraska.
UWM is also proud to have brought the Weatherization Assistance Program back to Douglas County through its partnership with OPPD and the Nebraska Department of Water, Energy and Environment. This free service helps low-income households lower utility costs, improve home safety and create healthier living conditions — addressing both immediate needs and long-term well-being for families.
Moving Forward Together
In today’s fluid landscape of rising demand and shifting resources, UWM remains steadfast in its commitment to invest wisely, adapt as needed and maximize the impact of every gift. The community relies on UWM’s knowledge of local needs and collaborative approach to strengthen the nonprofit sector and fill critical gaps – ensuring essential services remain intact for families when they need them most.
“United Way plays a vital role in our community by connecting resources to real needs with insight, strategy and compassion,” said Chanda Chacón, president and CEO of Children’s Nebraska and 2024-2025 UWM Board Chair. “As challenges grow more complex, UWM’s work to create pathways for families is critical. Our community can trust UWM to lead that work thoughtfully and effectively.”
With guidance from its Board of Directors, UWM stays attuned to the community’s evolving needs and the best ways to respond. By bringing together individuals, government, nonprofits and businesses, UWM works to create meaningful, lasting impact alongside partners, donors and volunteers.
“While our programs and partnerships continue to address social and economic disparities, we are excited to launch the next campaign alongside 2025-2026 Campaign Chairs Jeff and Lisa Russell with Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska,” said Forsberg. “The team they’ve brought together continues to inspire more people to get involved, engage in community and improve the well-being of families across the metro.”
UWM will kick off its 2025-2026 campaign on Thursday, August 28, at the Scott Conference Center on the University of Nebraska – Omaha campus. To get involved in next year’s campaign through volunteerism or a donation, go to UnitedWayMidlands.org. For a full list of UWM’s investments and more information, go to UnitedWayMidlands.org/CommunityInvestments.