A Note from our President and CEO

Happy New Year, Heart of Missouri United Way community!

For me, the beginning of a new year always brings two things: reflection and anticipation. Reflection on the year behind us, and anticipation for the opportunities ahead.

2025 was a pivotal year for me personally and professionally. I went from being a "retired corporate gal" (my own affectionate title) to stepping into the role of President & CEO of Heart of Missouri United Way. And what a meaningful year it has been. If you've heard me share the story, you know I wasn't actively looking to rejoin the workforce. But while I wasn't looking for a job, this job was clearly looking for me. I'm grateful it found me.

It has been an honor to serve in this role. My 27 years in the corporate world have been put to good use, and I'm incredibly proud of what our team and community accomplished together in 2025. I won't give away too much before our annual report is released, but I can say this: it was a successful year. We implemented key operational and structural changes to prepare us for the future, refreshed our mission, vision, and values, developed a thoughtful strategic plan, and increased the dollars raised to support our community. Together, we moved this organization forward.

As I look ahead to 2026, I'm energized by what's on the horizon. From deepening engagement with our donors, to relaunching our brand, to exploring new ways to invest in our community, this will be a year of important work—and celebration. Heart of Missouri United Way turns 80 this year! Throughout the coming months, I'll share updates on initiatives designed to help us grow, evolve, and better serve our community for the next 80 years.

Thank you for growing with me over the past year. I can't wait to see what we accomplish together in 2026.

Warmly,

Talia

President & CEO

Welcome to the team, Megan!

Meet Our Workplace Fundraising Coordinator!

We're excited to introduce Megan Pennington, our new Workplace Fundraising Coordinator, to the Resource Development Department! Megan's work will focus on supporting our workplace campaigns and strengthening connections with new and existing donors. Her passion for community engagement and relationship-building makes her a fantastic addition to our team. 

33rd Annual 
Columbia Values Diversity Celebration


The 33rd Annual Columbia Values Diversity Celebration welcomed more than 800 guests for a morning of connection, breakfast, and a powerful program themed “Our Beloved Community: Why We Stand Together.”

Give 5, a program of Heart of Missouri United Way, was a signature sponsor. Several of our current cohort members attended the event. Check out the information below to learn more about the Give 5 program and how you can join our next cohort.

Our President and CEO, Talia Jackson, emcee, opened the program by honoring Dr. King’s legacy, reminding attendees, “We are gathered here today not just to remember Dr. King’s dream, but to honor it.”

What is GIVE 5?

Give 5 is a social program that matches volunteer opportunities with retired (or near-retired) participants aged 55 and over who live in Boone County. 

Each Give 5 cohort meets for a series of sessions and visits numerous nonprofits throughout the program. Expect to have fun, make new friends, and learn about volunteer opportunities that can match your talents, passions, and personality. To learn more and sign up to for the next cohort, click below. 

Call 2-1-1 for Local Community Resources

Heart of Missouri United Way works collaboratively with other United Way organizations across Missouri to provide local community connection services for those in need across our state. The 211 community resource connection service provides those in need with a centralized contact point to identify local resources that may be able to provide assistance.

Should you, a loved one, or someone you know ever be in need of support, please dial 2-1-1 anytime or send a text to 1-800-427-4626 between 9am and 5pm Monday through Friday to be connected with a trained specialist that may be of assistance. You may also access an online directory of services at www.211helps.org.



Heart of Missouri United Way invests in programs at nonprofit organizations in the impact areas of health and basic needs, education, and financial stability. Our investments reach individuals and families in Boone, Cooper, and Howard Counties.

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