No need to wonder how the Omaha – Council Bluffs metro area compares to other communities. The 2011 United Way of the Midlands Campaign is shining example of how we stand head and shoulders above the rest.  The chairs of the 2011 campaign, Jim and Diny Landen, announced today that the drive raised a record $22,500,000. That’s more than the goal ($21.7 million), and in fact, raised 6.3 percent more than the previous campaign.

The winners of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Essay Contest read their winning essays before a crowd gathered at United Way, sharing their hopes and dreams for our community.  Read the winning essays and see how students from Elementary to High School view the world around us and its potential for change.

Scouting provides unique opportunities to boys and girls by offering a chance to develop character and life skills; all while having fun with fellow Scouts and adult leaders.  It's a great opportunity for youth around the community and United Way helps make this service possible to all kids, no matter their financial constraints.

As we approach tax season, financial stability becomes an important factor in many families.  If you're expecting a tax refund, now is the time to learn how to become financially stable through educational seminars and help from certified professionals.  See how finding Financial Stability can impact your future.

United Way of the Midlands has embarked on a Strategic Planning process which is intended to better address our community's human needs, and help us discover how we can provide the best possible service to the Omaha metro area into the future.

Across the state of Nebraska, 19 United Ways serve dozens of communities, connecting thousands of Nebraskans to essential services.  If you live outside of the Omaha-Council Bluffs metropolitan area, you can find your United Way here.