United Way of Summit & Medina hosted its annual Report to the Community event on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, from 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM at the John S. Knight Center in Akron.
This annual event brings together business, civic, and spiritual leaders to discuss updates on the community’s Bold Goals, highlighting the impact of its direct service programs and community partnerships, while also addressing challenges and sharing a vision for the future of Summit and Medina counties.
Annie McFadden, the organizations first female leader in its 110-year history said, “Leading this legacy institution is a job that I take very seriously, especially in a time of such dynamic change that we are facing. It is a challenging time for families who need help, and it’s a challenging time for the non-profits who help them. But I am adamant that every shift we make opens a door to new ways of thinking, and new ways to engage in collective work in our community.” McFadden began by sharing the latest data on Ohio’s ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) population, highlighting that over 115,000 households in Summit and Medina counties do not make enough money to sustain a household survival budget, which takes into consideration necessary costs like housing, childcare, food, transportation, health care, technology, taxes and other basic needs.
The organization also shared updates on its community impact, noting that at the 5 Family Resource Centers operated by United Way in Akron Public Schools, families were provided with services about 5,700 times, with a focus on health, financial wellness, housing supports and more. Also in 2024, client debt at the Financial Empowerment Center, a partnership between United Way and the City of Akron, was reduced by over $2.3 million dollars. Finally, through the Housing Services program, 99% of homeless people rehoused by United Way in 2023 remain stably housed two years later.
Whitt Butler, Board Chair for United Way of Summit & Medina doubled down on not only the vital mission of the organization, but the importance of collective impact reminding the audience, “As we look ahead, our strategy isn’t only about scaling programs. It’s about scaling trust and deepening the bonds that make lasting community change possible.”
Nearly 700 members of the community were in attendance including corporate and nonprofit partners and individuals. Of those in attendance, a variety of voices were recognized for their above and beyond support of United Way’s campaign:
Spirit of Caring, our top campaign that goes above and beyond exhibiting “volunteer, advocate, give, lead” with a year-round commitment to the work: Molina Healthcare
Philanthropic Visionary, given to two individuals that go above and beyond advocating for their community and giving back their time through various opportunities: Drew Liebrecht with 3M and Towanda Mullins with the Sojourner Truth Project Committee
Outstanding Coordinator, given to one coordinator that has gone above and beyond supporting the campaign and is a strong advocate for the community: Joe May with State & Federal Communications, Inc.
Brennan Leadership Award, presented to an outstanding major gift donor that has gone above and beyond making a lasting impact personally and professionally: Elizabeth Z. Bartz and John P. Chames
McFadden wrapped the event by calling on the room of leaders, volunteers and philanthropists to act boldly in support of the community. “Often, overwhelming changes happening all at once can cause some inertia – a “wait until the dust settles” mentality. I’d challenge this room to fight that urge, because now is the time to act. Stay engaged. This community has a lot coming at us. Focus on proactivity. If everyone in this room can pick one way they can continue to make a difference, it’ll do just that.” To give to the impactful work of United Way of Summit & Medina visit uwsummitmedina.org and click ‘Give Now’ or explore other ways to get involved.
About United Way of Summit & Medina
United Way of Summit & Medina is changing the way our community tackles complex challenges. We seek out root causes and build connections that make an overwhelming system easier to navigate. We find out why people are struggling and walk side by side with them, making sure they get the help they need.
We’re working to create a system that empowers people to achieve lasting success through education, financial stability and healthy lives.