Who We Are
United Way of Eastern LaSalle County is a recognized leader in helping solve community problems. As a volunteer-led organization, UWELC is dedicated to helping Eastern LaSalle County’s most vulnerable citizens become and remain self-sufficient. UWELC partners with a network of the most effective health and human service non-profits serving Dayton, Grand Ridge, Harding, Leland, Marseilles, Naplate, Norway, Ottawa, Seneca, Serena, Sheridan, and Wedron. By uniting service organizations, individuals, businesses, and government, United Way of Eastern LaSalle County addresses our community’s most pressing needs. United Way is governed by a local Board of experienced Volunteers and day to day operations are carried out by a modest staff of two.
Our Mission
To improve lives mobilizing the caring power of our communities within Eastern LaSalle County.
Our Vision
To positively impact people’s lives by mobilizing community resources within Eastern LaSalle County.
In addition to raising funds to support local agency programs, your United Way also…
Promotes literacy for children from birth to age 5 through sponsorship for children in the Dolly Parton Imagination Library book program. children receive a new book each month mailed directly to their home. This preschool literacy and kindergarten readiness initiative is a collaboration between United Way and The Family Room in Ottawa. The Family Room encourages local moms to sign their children up for the program. Signature Sponsor, ITW Zip-Pak awarded United Way of Eastern LaSalle County a $5,000 grant for this program when it started up.
Since 2000, United Way and SABIC Innovative Plastics have partnered together to provide approximately 1600 low-income students the supplies they need for a successful start to each school year.
Labor of Love takes place the first Saturday in October and over 400 volunteers of all ages and abilities lent their hearts and muscle to revitalize and repair homes owned by low-income homeowners. Their efforts helped seniors and families remain in their homes — keeping them warm, safe, and secure. Signature Sponsor Exelon Generation and LaSalle Station have consistently awarded United Way’s Labor of Love a $15,000 repair grant. Exelon employees and their families provide volunteer leadership and labor to restore homes. Ameren IP Warm Neighbors Foundation awards Labor of Love an $8,000 weatherization grant. The foundation has been supporting Labor of Love weatherization projects since 1995.
211 Illinois – United Way of Eastern LaSalle County’s Board of Directors approved sponsoring 211 within eastern Lasalle County. 211 is a 24/7 toll free number that connects individuals to resources in their community.