Member Spotlight – United Way of McPherson County
For nearly 140 years, United Way has served as a global model for cooperative fundraising, and the United Way of McPherson County has carried that mission locally since the 1950s. Focused on building stronger communities for the common good, the organization supports 19 nonprofit programs across the county. Its work centers on improving health, education, and financial stability by partnering with agencies that provide basic needs, rebuild lives, prepare individuals for the future, and promote self-reliance. Executive Director Laura Parks emphasized the collaborative nature of this mission, saying, “You’ve heard this saying – that it takes a village to raise your family. We believe that it’s our job to be collaborators in our community and to keep that going.” She added that United Way works to “fill in the gaps” by stepping up whenever a community need arises.
Community leadership and volunteerism play a key role in advancing United Way’s impact. Current President Lara Vanderhoof shared, “I love to see how our community shows up so well, and it’s been an honor and privilege to serve our community and continue the spirit of volunteerism because it strengthens our community.” Incoming President Grace Gougis echoed that sentiment in remarks shared on her behalf, noting that “United Way’s work goes beyond fundraising. It brings together local businesses, nonprofits and community leaders to create real, lasting impact in health, education and financial stability for all in our county.” She also highlighted the shared vision between United Way and the Chamber of Commerce for a thriving community where residents and businesses succeed together.
Fundraising remains central to sustaining these efforts. Campaign Chair Alaina Polston explained, “A big part of what United Way does is we do a campaign every year to raise money for these different partner agencies,” adding that this year’s goal is $315,000, with 70% already raised. One standout initiative supported by those funds is the Dolly Parton Imagination Library, which promotes early literacy by mailing free books to children from birth to age five. “If we have books in homes,” Parks said, “hopefully it’s building that literacy, hopefully it’s building that love for learning.” Since 2019, more than 45,000 books have been gifted to nearly 1,000 children in McPherson County, illustrating how United Way continues to unite hearts, empower change, and build a stronger community. To contribute to this year’s McPherson County United Way campaign visit their website at unitedwaymcpherson.org or send your donation to United Way of McPherson County, P.O. 55, McPherson, KS 67460. The United Way campaign will run through January31, 2026. To see photos from Chamber Connections hosted by United Way of McPherson County, go here.