Friends,

I am honored to step into the role of Interim President & CEO of United Way Blackhawk Region and to serve alongside such a dedicated network of partners, volunteers, donors, and advocates.

For generations, the United Way has been a force for measurable change—bringing people together to improve education, financial stability, and health in the communities we call home.

As we look ahead, my commitment is simple: listen closely, lead transparently, and build on the strong foundation already in place.

Across the United Way Blackhawk Region, we see innovation, resilience, and deep community knowledge. My goal is to support and amplify that work while ensuring we remain focused on impact and accountability.

This moment presents both challenges and opportunities. Together, we will strengthen partnerships, deepen trust, and advance solutions that create lasting results for individuals and families. I believe in the power of collective action—and there is no better example than the United Way.

Thank you for your continued dedication, support and belief in our mission. I am excited for the work ahead and proud to serve with you.

With gratitude,

Dr. Dennis Pauli

Interim President & CEO

$150,000 Awarded to Meet Emerging Community Needs

In response to increasing critical needs throughout the Blackhawk Region, $150,000 was awarded to meet demands for essential services such as housing stability, food security, and childcare.Community Impact Council Chair, Megan Timm emphasized the urgency of the situation, noting the increasing strain on nonprofit organizations and the importance of ensuring equitable access to services throughout the region.

“As needs continue to grow, this funding will help our community partners continue delivering the essential services local families rely on."

Following a competitive process, funding was awarded to the following programs positioned to make an immediate and meaningful impact for our community’s most vulnerable individuals and families: Beloit Meals on Wheels, Boys and Girls Club–Janesville, ECHO, Edgerton Outreach, Family Promise, Family Services, HealthNet, RSVP, Salvation Army Rock County, and Vivent Health.

Through grants like these, UWBR continues to support innovative and responsive solutions that strengthen the Blackhawk Region today and into the future.To read the full media release, please visit us at LiveUnitedBR.org

Stronger Together: UWBR Funded Partners

Across the United Way Blackhawk Region, partnership is more than a strategy—it’s a promise to our neighbors. Every day, local nonprofit partners work together to ensure individuals and families are able to build healthy communities, promote youth opportunity and create financial security for all.

What makes this work powerful is collaboration. Agencies coordinate referrals and close service gaps so community members don’t have to navigate challenges alone. Volunteers and donors amplify this impact, turning generosity into tangible results—meals served, families housed, and goals achieved.

Together, we are addressing urgent needs while building pathways to lasting change. Through shared commitment and collective action, United Way Blackhawk Region Funded Partners continue to strengthen our community—one neighbor, one family, one success story at a time.

Thank you to our generous donors whose support of the makes this work possible and, in turn, strengthens the vital efforts of our Funded Partners across the region. Click the link to read full descriptions of the programs we invest in.