Employees at Glacial Ridge Health System (GRHS) contributed $13,993 in this year’s 2026 workplace giving campaign for United Way Lakes and Prairie. The dollars stay in the area, helping neighbors with food, school supplies, winter coats, and other everyday essentials.

15 Years of Employee Giving in Pope County

“GRHS has the largest employee giving campaign in Pope County,” said Jen Jabas, Executive Director of United Way Lakes and Prairie. GRHS employees have supported United Way every year since 2011, contributing $147,617. Giving is easy: they can write a one-time check, set up a payroll deduction, or cash out paid time off to donate. It’s an option many use to contribute more than they otherwise could.

Where United Way Donations Go

“Every dollar GRHS employees give goes to work right here,” said Jabas. “When a family picks up groceries at the Food Drop or a child gets a backpack full of school supplies, that’s this campaign in action.” Additional United Way programs supported by the campaign include Backpack Attack, Warm Winter Wear, and the Holiday Gift Program. These services reach individuals and families throughout Pope County year-round.

United Way Supports ALICE Households in Pope County

Many working households in the community fall into what United Way calls ALICE, Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed. These are families who earn above the federal poverty level, yet they still struggle to afford basics like housing, food, and child care. That’s where United Way Lakes and Prairie steps in, helping these families access support during difficult times. Additionally, programs and partnerships, such as Work United, help individuals gain and maintain employment.

Across all of its work, the organization focuses on four key areas: Healthy Community, Youth Opportunity, Financial Security, and Community Resiliency.

Learn More or Get Involved

Explore United Way Lakes and Prairie programs, volunteer opportunities, and ways to give at uwlp.org/what-we-do.