United Way of Midland County campaign seeks to raise $4.7 million

The 2022 campaign goal for United Way of Midland County is lofty, at $4.7 million, but the work done from the organization is absolutely vital to local residents. The organization’s mission is to unite the community by improving lives, and ensuring all people are thriving and living their full potential. Holly Miller is the President and CEO of United Way of Midland County, and has been with the organization for 13.5 years. 
Holly Miller is the president and CEO of the United Way of Midland County.
The campaign is led by chairs Michael and Claudia Goad, Miller says. “They are true champions for our community, with Michael serving as the President/CEO at Dow Credit Union and Claudia investing her time as a community volunteer.”

Miller says the organization doesn’t focus on a single issue or program, but rather, recognizes the community’s needs are diverse and always changing. United Way of Midland County’s work is centered on three key areas: youth success, health, and household stability. “We listen, ask questions, and analyze data to ensure our work is aligned with the most-pressing human service needs,” she says. 

This year’s theme centers on a simple, but profound question: Have you ever? Have you ever skipped a meal so your kids could eat? Have you ever wondered where you will sleep tonight? The campaign encourages people to think about if they’ve ever needed assistance, and how reassuring it is when you receive help. 



Working with 27 nonprofit partner agencies, and investing in nearly 70 programs, United Way’s life-changing work is the result of a community-wide effort. “Collaboration is in our DNA,” Miller says. “In addition to our partner agencies, we collaborate with many other nonprofits, local schools, small businesses, corporations, the faith community, foundations, individuals and more. The true power of United Way is in the many ways we come together to create change.”

Miller says other community collaborations take place with Health and Human Services Council, Great Start Collaborative, Midland Area Wellbeing Coalition, Project Community Connect, and Midland County Hunger Connections.

The campaign runs throughout the fall, and those called to help can assist in many different ways. “Anyone can be a part of creating a stronger community, and we invite everyone to join in,” Miller says. “For some, they support the annual campaign with a philanthropic investment, others get engaged in advocacy to better understand how they can lend their voice for others, and many lend their time and talents as a volunteer. All of these activities are the framework for success and community change.”

The continual community support in prior campaigns has Miller feeling optimistic about the 2022 goal. “We live in an amazing community that has a long and rich history of supporting one another,” she says, “It’s woven into our very fabric.”