Web page update: We are beginning to transition our web content to a new domain name and site that will be located at UWKawValley.org (the former United Way of Douglas County site). For the most up-to-date information and links, we recommend following our social media accounts until this transition is completed later this year.
1/4/2023 Update: We are updating our social media to reflect our new name and repurposing some duplicate accounts. Look for us at @uwkawvalley on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. We’ll be creating a new LinkedIn page soon. We are also in the first stages of consolidating a web page and will announce changes as they are made. Please be patient as we work to change over logos and language, and rest assured that most of this is purely cosmetic!
10/20/22 Update: Douglas County representatives have been assigned to the board and standing committees. Our first official board meeting with new members will be October 27. Board members are planning a retreat for early next year. Former UWDC interim CEO Peggy Johnson joined us on United Way Wednesday recently to talk a little bit about the merger.
10/4/22 Update: Merger paperwork has been submitted to the Secretary of State and we are officially beginning our journey together! Even though we are officially in the books now as United Way of Kaw Valley, you’ll still be hearing from us as both United Way of Greater Topeka and United Way of Douglas County through the end of this year.
8/25/22 Update: At the virtual special meeting this morning, members in attendance unanimously approved the merger agreement.
This page is under construction and will provide information on the pending merger of United Way of Greater Topeka and United Way of Douglas County that was announced to the public on August 3, 2022.
On August 3, we joined our colleagues from United Way of Douglas County to announce that we are in the final stages of authorizing a merger of our two organizations. Together, we will become United Way of Kaw Valley. We are excited for this next step in our work to create strong, healthy, and equitable communities.
Both board chairs affirmed that United Way’s work in Douglas County would continue to be funded with donations made in Douglas County and would continue to be defined by Douglas County volunteers. UWGT’s work in Jackson County provides an existing model for merging with an eye to local control of funds. Donations given in one county stay with that county unless a donor specifies otherwise, and donors always have a choice.
The merger is subject to final approval votes from our donors later this month. While staff will begin collaborating immediately, each United Way will conduct its fall workplace campaign under its existing identity. A brand relaunch as United Way of Kaw Valley is planned for early in 2023.
Read the press release (PDF file)
Watch the Facebook live of the August 3 press conference with United Way of Douglas County Board Chair Kurt Schueler, UWGT Board Chair Matt All, and UWGT CEO Jessica Lehnherr.