*This special edition of the CEWT Blog was written by Wendi Ames, Director of Donor and Community Engagement, United Way of Southeastern Idaho.

The United Way of Southeastern Idaho’s annual giving campaign has evolved into something more than a simple workplace fundraiser; it's a chance for individuals, businesses, and organizations to join forces with UW and bolster the most passionate, efficient, and resourceful nonprofits in our region. At the heart of this campaign are the countless success stories that unfold in local households along familiar streets, all thanks to community contributions that simply sustain the necessities that empower families and individuals to navigate challenges and forge ahead on a path to financial stability. 

In Southeast Idaho, 2 in 5 households are classified as ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed). ALICE needs our support because they find themselves in a challenging and often overlooked position in our community. They don't qualify for government and state programs designed for those below the poverty line, but they still struggle to fill the fridge, pay utilities, and obtain quality healthcare and educational resources.

Here's a challenge: the next time you find yourself in a group of 5 or more people, take a moment to look around. You'll quickly realize that ALICE isn't just a statistic; ALICE is our neighbors, our friends, and members of our community. These are hardworking individuals and families who are striving to make ends meet despite the challenges they face. It's a reminder that ALICE is closer to home than we might think, and together, we can make a significant impact on their lives. Supporting ALICE households is not just about helping individuals and families; it's about building a more resilient and vibrant Southeastern Idaho. When ALICE families thrive, the entire community benefits.

We invite you to join our UW Giving Campaign and become an advocate for ALICE by making a meaningful donation to this year’s campaign. Your support is crucial to the 26 local, community-vetted nonprofit programs that are sustained through the United Way Community Fund. By getting involved, you become a part of the success stories that have already impacted over 31,000 households in our region. Together, we can create a stronger and more resilient community where every family, child, senior, veteran, and single mom on one of those familiar streets can thrive. Join us in making a lasting difference, here at home.