Unity In action:
Educate, Empower, Uplift
I’m truly grateful for the opportunity to serve as your 2026 Vice President of the United Way of Pekin. Since 1955, our organization has been working alongside neighbors, friends, and families to make our community stronger and to support those who need it most.
After and extensive review process, we were able to fund 91% of the agencies that asked for our help last year. These agencies and their funded programs are focusing on the biggest and most complex needs in our community today.
Of course, financial contributions are vital—but they’re just one part of the picture. A real, lasting impact comes from all of us working together: through donations, volunteering, and sharing our time and resources. We want every agency to feel seen and every opportunity to have a chance to thrive.
This is why I’m calling on all of us to come together in Unity in Action—to educate, empower, and lift up our community. When we do that, we don’t just help others; we make our whole community stronger.
United,
Jennifer Denning
2026-2027 VP/Campaign Chair
2025-2026 Pacesetter Companies
HOst a workplace campaign
Partnering with the United Way of Pekin through a workplace giving campaign is a powerful way to foster a culture of purpose and teamwork within your organization. These campaigns do more than just raise vital funds; they boost employee morale and engagement by providing a simple, collective way for your team to make a measurable impact right here in our community. By offering convenient options like payroll deduction, you empower your employees to support local initiatives —all while strengthening your company's reputation as a dedicated community leader. When we unite our resources, we create a stronger, more resilient Pekin for everyone.
Join the 309 SMall business Initiative
The 309 Small Business Initiative is designed to fuel the entrepreneurial spirit that drives the Pekin area's economy. By investing in this program, your company directly supports the growth and sustainability of our local small business ecosystem through essential resources, and mentorship. This initiative recognizes that a thriving business community creates a ripple effect of local jobs and economic stability, ensuring that our homegrown innovators have the tools they need to succeed.
Make a Donation
Your support, whether through a one-time donation, a major gift, or a legacy through planned giving, ensures the United Way of Pekin can address our community’s most pressing needs today and for generations to come. Every contribution acts as a vital investment in local stability, allowing us to turn your generosity into immediate action and long-term impact. Join us in building a lasting foundation for a stronger, more vibrant Pekin.