The United Way works for the health, education, and financial stability of residents, and being able to talk to the members of the Allen Lima Leadership class is a way to get their message out and possibly get board members and volunteers.

The Area Agency on Aging, United Way of Greater Lima, and Mental Health and Recovery Services are asking the Allen County Commissioners to consider providing ten thousand dollars a year for three years due to a growing need for the service. Allen County 211 received 2,600 calls in the last year and these organizations want to ensure the national program can stay established on a local level.

Mercy Health presented a check for $2,000 toward the purchase of school supplies to the United Way. Schools have been contacting the United Way and with this donation, each school can get the specific school supplies that their students need. Mercy Health was happy to help the area schools.

The Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion workshop was held at the Lima Community Church Axis Center, where various community leaders attended to learn more about how they can improve the area. An emphasis was placed on seeking different opinions, and including the voices of everyone when making an informed decision.

Erin Hardesty will be taking over the position from Derek Stemen in March. Hardesty has been a part of the United Way for over 30 years, serving as campaign chair in 2011 and served on just about every committee established at the agency. She also served on the board of directors for 12 years and as Labor Liaison connecting local unions to the work of the United Way. Stemen has accepted a job with LifeWise Academy to serve as their Director of Advancement.

A total of $3,000 was donated to the United Way's 2021 campaign. The money was raised through cookie sales at McDonald's locations over the past two weeks. The United Way says they are grateful for the donation and the money will go towards helping businesses still struggling during the pandemic.