April 2020

Working together to ensure a strong safety net

Normally in April we'd be updating you about our annual fundraising campaign. But since this spring is like none other, in mid-March we quickly pivoted to support local COVID-19 efforts. Efrat Feferman, United Way of Monroe County, provides an update on how your support is making a positive difference for local people - right now - during this crisis.

Donations to the COVID-19 Emergency Relief Fund from individual donors like you and organizations in our community allow us to quickly support non-profits as they continue to provide crucial services during the pandemic.

A big thanks in advance to those who have asked about sharing their stimulus checks through the COVID-19 Emergency Relief Fund since they’re continuing to get paid but won’t actually need those funds.

The United Way COVID-19 Emergency Relief Fund has granted over $300,000 to human service organizations serving people in Monroe, Owen, and Greene counties , ​and donations continue to come in. To participate, click below. 

Read about how these organizations are using grant funds >>

Our deep thanks to supporters of this fund, including Bloomington Health Foundation, Bloomington Sunrise Rotary, Bloomington Township, Blueline, Boston Scientific, Buskirk-Chumley Theater, City of Bloomington, Community Foundation of Bloomington and Monroe County, Cook Medical, Duke Energy, Etch Clothing Co., First Financial Bank, First United Church, First United Methodist Church, Hoosier Energy, IU Credit Union, IU Credit Union Volunteer Board of Directors, Monroe County Government, Old National Bank, Owen County State Bank, Perry Township, Private Individuals, Susan Yeley Homes, Tim Ellis Realtors, Truist Foundation, United Way of Monroe County, United Way Worldwide, and Van Buren Township 

March 12 Wake Up! with United Way told the stories of three individuals living with an acquired brain injury

Michelle sustained multiple brain and head injuries when she was struck by a vehicle while crossing the street. Nick acquired his brain injury during a basketball game when he was 15, and lived without a diagnosis for six years. Cathleen was driving home from work 14 months ago when another vehicle collided with hers, causing her brain injury.

These three individuals joined us for the discussion "How to Create a More Brain Injury-Friendly Community" on March 12. They shared their stories as well as their perspectives on ways our community can strive to be more brain injury-friendly.

The panel also included Jean Capler, Local Support Network Leader for the Rehabilitation Hospital of Indiana Resource Facilitation Program, and Rebecca Eberle, clinical professor with IU Speech, Hearing, and Language Studies to share their knowledge on the networks in place to support individuals in our community who are living with brain injuries. 

Wake Up! with United Way is a collaborative project of United Way of Monroe County and IU’s Political and Civic Engagement Program, with thanks to The Greater Bloomington Chamber of Commerce and the Bloomington Board of Realtors for series support.

Creative ways the community is supporting United Way's COVID-19 Fund

After the Buskirk-Chumley Theater featured a quote from Mr. Rogers on their marquee to be uplifting in these uncertain times, they launched the Marquee YOUR Message virtual auction. Members of the community bid for a chance to put a personalized message on the marquee. In addition to supporting the theater, 20% of the funds raised were donated to the COVID-19 Emergency Relief Fund.

First United Church , Blueline , and Bloomington Sunrise Rotary also hosted creative fundraisers.

Ongoing fundraisers organized by Susan Yeley Homes and Etch Clothing Co . are also benefitting United Way. Thank you!

New Tax Advantages for Donors

If, in the midst of everything else, you've not noticed the new tax incentive for 2020 incorporated into the CARES Act legislation, you're not alone. To encourage further philanthropy (in the wake of recent year's tax disincentives to charitable giving), Congress included an "above-the-line" tax deduction of up to $300 for cash donations to charity this year. Find out more here.

From what we know, this is true for 2020; you will want to consult with your own advisors for the most accurate, up-to-date information at tax time. United Way does not provide legal or professional advice. Please consult with your advisor to see how these new opportunities may compliment your own financial and philanthropic objectives. 

Complete your 2020 Census!

Census Day was April 1, but don't worry, you can still respond by phone, by mail, or online! Visit 2020census.gov to find out how.