VITA 2026 Wrap Up

This tax season, our VITA program once again made a meaningful impact across our community. Thanks to the dedication of our incredible volunteers, we filed 865 tax returns—bringing more than $766,000 back into the hands of local individuals and families. With over 1,900 volunteer hours contributed, this program continues to provide free, reliable tax preparation services while strengthening financial stability in our region.

Thank you for supporting VITA!

Child Care Aware Honors Salina Area United Way

We’re proud to share that Child Care Aware of Kansas has recognized the Salina Area United Way’s Early Childcare Initiative as a Child Care Community Champion. This honor highlights the collaborative work happening in our community to expand access to quality, affordable child care and support local providers.

Read the full story and learn more about this exciting recognition.

Through our Early Childcare Initiative, we’re proud to support the providers who care for our community’s youngest learners. This year, over $346,000 in ECIF grants were awarded to local non-profit childcare centers and in-home providers—helping improve wages, expand care options, and strengthen the childcare system for families in Saline and Ellsworth counties. Learn more an see the full list of grantees

Support the Early Childcare Initiative

We’re excited to introduce a brand-new event—Casino Night! This inaugural event will bring our community together for an evening of fun, connection, and purpose—all while raising critical funds to support Salina Area United Way programs and our local partners.

Originally planned for earlier this year, Casino Night has been rescheduled to allow for an even stronger event experience for our guests, sponsors, and supporters. Proceeds from the evening—including tickets, sponsorships, and raffle packages—will directly support initiatives like our Early Childcare Initiative, community partnerships, and programs that help individuals and families thrive.

There are several ways to get involved:

• Purchase tickets and join us for a memorable night out
• Become a sponsor and showcase your support for our community
• Donate a raffle package to help us maximize our impact

We’re grateful for the continued support and flexibility from our community and sponsors as we prepare to launch this exciting new event. Stay tuned for the new date and details—we can’t wait to make this a night to remember!

For additional questions please contact us at sauw@unitedwaysalina.org or call 785-827-1312.

May is Mental Health Awareness Month—a time to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and remind our community that mental health matters.

At Salina Area United Way, we are proud to support programs and partners that provide vital mental health resources and services. Together, we can create a community where everyone feels seen, supported, and connected.

Looking to give back? Or need helping hands for your organization? We’ve got you covered.

Salina Area United Way is proud to serve as a hub for volunteerism in our community—connecting individuals with meaningful opportunities to make a difference.

👉 Explore current volunteer opportunities

Are you a nonprofit or organization in need of volunteers? We’d love to help share your opportunities with the community.

📩 Submit your volunteer needs by emailing us.

Together, we can strengthen our community through service.