The Heart of Illinois United Way has proven time and again that we are built to support central Illinois in times like these. Through our Community Impact Fund, we are able to adapt to changing needs while providing a solid foundation of services year-round.
Each year, approximately 300 local companies and organizations participate in our annual campaign. In 2021, there were 14 new corporate gifts, 11 corporate gifts with a 10% or more increase, 22 new employee campaigns, and 53 organizations that increased their donations to the United Way by 10% or more. In total, the 2021 Heart of Illinois United Way Campaign raised $9,115,359.
Annually, the Campaign Achievement and Best-in-Class Awards are one way the Heart of Illinois United Way recognizes local companies who improve their campaigns. Peoria Housing Authority received the Campaign Achievement Award for the largest percentage increase in employee participation; and Burklund Distributors, Inc. received the Best-in-Class Award for continued campaign excellence from year to year.
“As the Heart of Illinois United Way celebrates a century of community impact this year, we will continue our mission to help the people of central Illinois to care for one another. Just as our first campaign brought our community together for a common cause in January 1922, our work across sectors ensures we effectively stretch every dollar to make real change. An investment in our work is the best combination of using our hearts and trusting data to help the community we call home,” Jennifer Zammuto, President, said.
The Heart of Illinois United Way constantly evaluates data and collaborates with community partners to ensure personal and corporate donations to our Community Impact Fund address the greatest needs while providing a reliable and steady source of income for our partner agencies. Through the community’s generosity, the Heart of Illinois United Way ensures people in central Illinois have continued access to education, financial stability, and health programs.
“To raise more than $9 million over the past year in a community the size of central Illinois is an incredible achievement. The Heart of Illinois United Way does not do this work alone. For a century, teams of nonprofits, volunteers, and donors have generously worked together to create sustainable impact on the education, financial stability, and health needs of central Illinois,” Brian Ray, Regional President of PNC Bank and 2021 Campaign Chair, said.
Contributions to the Heart of Illinois United Way stay in central Illinois supporting vital health and human care programs throughout Peoria, Tazewell, Woodford, Stark, Marshall, and Putnam counties.
News about our 100th Anniversary Celebration!
- WCBU: HOI United Way marks 100th anniversary, announces $9.1M in fundraising from 2021 campaign
- HOIABC: Heart of Illinois United Way celebrates a century of giving back to the community
- Central Illinois Proud: United Way Celebrating 100 years of Community impact
- Heart of Illinois United Way – Photos from the Celebration!
There is not “one way” to celebrate 100 years of community impact…but an Honorary Heart of Illinois United “Way” is a great place to start!
It’s our birthday! Here’s to all of you who made it possible! The Heart of Illinois United Way was founded October 18, 1921! Thank you to the more than 35 companies, families, and organizations who sent us birthday wishes today! 
Our education, economic stability, healthcare, environment and social networks are the building blocks needed to form a solid, often complex foundation that is fundamental to leading healthy lives.