Donor Societies & Affinity Groups

When Jo Pearson first heard about United Way of East Central Iowa, she didn’t think she was in a position to donate financially. Balancing her family and a new job, it wasn’t the best time for her to give money.

But that didn’t stop her from finding another way to give to UWECI. She joined the New Programs Committee and volunteered her time to visit with nonprofit partners and assist with funding decisions. This committee visited agencies that were applying for funding from UWECI to better understand their needs and program ideas.

“It was such an eye-opening experience for me,” Pearson said.

That experience taught her just how great the need for UWECI funding was for many local nonprofits. She also learned how important the initiatives were that nonprofit agencies were promoting, and the differences they could make on neighbors throughout East Central Iowa.

To this day, Pearson continues supporting UWECI financially and has done so for 37 years. Ensuring her commitment to UWECI, Pearson set up a recurring monthly gift through her employers for many years and continues to make a recurring gift now in her retirement to help create positive community change.

“I am proud I can be a donor to UWECI. It comes back to helping make a difference in people’s lives right here in my community.”

Since 2009, Nick Nielsen has been a strong supporter of United Way of East Central Iowa. From being involved with Emerging Leaders United (formerly Young Leaders Society) in the past to serving as a leader on the Board of Directors and Campaign Cabinet today, he describes his involvement with our organization as “rewarding and impactful.”

When asked about what makes UWECI a unique nonprofit organization and why he gets involved, Nick says, “I choose to support United Way because they are a leader in the community. UWECI works hard to understand the immediate and long-term needs of our community, and they’ve provided leadership, support, and guidance when needed. In times of need, you can count on UWECI to step up to the challenge and serve our people.”

Nick and his wife, Wendy, are active UWECI supporters. As Sinclair Society members, they believe in the power of giving back to the community and the power in donor societies.