Supporting healthier communities through local partnerships, survivor services, youth mentoring and community activities in Northwest Illinois.
Building a Healthy Community in Northwest Illinois
A healthier community begins with people being able to find support, feel safe and build trusted relationships. United Way of Northwest Illinois connects local partners and resources to support well-being in Stephenson, Jo Daviess and Carroll counties.
Local investment. Shared purpose.
In its 2024–2025 Impact Report, UWNI reported $58,000 in Health Initiative funding. Its work brought local organizations together to strengthen services for people facing violence, barriers to care and other challenges affecting their well-being.
These partnerships connect community investment with practical support close to home. By helping organizations share resources and work together, UWNI supports a stronger network of care for local residents.
Making support safer and more accessible
One example is the Safety & Access Change Initiative, involving VOICES, RAMP and Tyler’s Justice Center. The initiative focused on making services more accessible to survivors with disabilities and Deaf survivors across Stephenson, Jo Daviess and Carroll counties.
UWNI reported improvements in communication, cooperation, resource sharing and survivor-centered referrals among participating organizations. Its health work also included the Girl Scout Leadership Experience, which provided guidance and mentorship to underserved girls in Freeport and surrounding communities, with an emphasis on healthy relationships.
Bringing neighbors together through activity
Community connections also took shape through the Lincoln-Douglas 5K, One-Mile Fun Run and Kids Races, organized in partnership with the Family YMCA of Northwest Illinois. The event brings different ages together around physical activity, including a children’s competition to name the “Fastest Kid in Town.”
UWNI’s health page also documents collaboration through the Healthy Community Coalition of Stephenson County. Its 2022–2024 priorities included youth health prevention, positive self-image and healthier behaviors.
A healthier community takes all of us
Through local investment, stronger partnerships and opportunities to connect, UWNI helps community organizations build a more supportive Northwest Illinois.
Sources and reporting notes
- UWNI 2024–2025 Impact Report (PDF) — Health Initiative funding, partner initiatives and reported collaboration outcomes.
- UWNI Health Initiative — Community partnerships, race activities and the coalition’s historical 2022–2024 priorities.
Figures and activities reflect the reporting periods identified above.