From supporting local nonprofits to creating new opportunities for businesses and individuals to give back, United Way Blackhawk Region is focused on connecting people, resources, and opportunities to create lasting community impact.
On October 28, 2026, Dr. Dennis Pauli, Interim President & CEO of United Way Blackhawk Region, joined WCLO Radio for a conversation about the organization's mission, the growing needs across our communities, and the many ways people can get involved.
During the interview, Dr. Pauli shared his perspective on the importance of community partnerships, responsible charitable investments, and the power of working together to make a meaningful difference.
Understanding the Needs in Our Own Backyard
After retiring from a 15-year career as Superintendent of the Edgerton School District and serving 12 years on United Way's Board of Directors, Dr. Pauli stepped into his interim leadership role with a deep commitment to the organization and the people it serves.
One of his first priorities was meeting with nonprofit leaders throughout the Blackhawk Region, including organizations currently receiving United Way funding and those working independently to address local challenges.
Those conversations revealed both the extent of community needs and the extraordinary dedication of the people working to meet them.
Dr. Pauli shared that approximately 4 in 10 households across the Blackhawk Region could qualify for some level of assistance from local nonprofit organizations.
Behind that statistic are individuals and families facing everyday challenges, from housing instability and food insecurity to unexpected job losses, healthcare expenses, and other financial hardships.
Life circumstances can change quickly, and access to the right resources at the right time can make all the difference.
Investing in Programs That Make a Measurable Difference
United Way Blackhawk Region brings together donors, businesses, and nonprofit partners to address critical needs across Rock County, Wisconsin, and northern Winnebago County, Illinois.
Rather than focusing on a single cause, United Way supports programs that create meaningful impact across four key areas:
- Financial Security: Helping individuals and families build stability through access to essential resources, including housing and food assistance.
- Youth Opportunities: Supporting programs that help children and young people learn, grow, and thrive.
- Healthy Communities: Improving access to healthcare and services that support community well-being.
- Resilient Communities: Strengthening the connections and resources people rely on during difficult times.
During the interview, Dr. Pauli emphasized the importance of accountability in the grantmaking process.
Organizations applying for funding must demonstrate how their programs address community needs, establish measurable goals, and show that they have the capacity to achieve meaningful results.
United Way also reviews financial stability and monitors progress to help ensure donor contributions are invested responsibly.
This approach gives supporters confidence that their generosity is helping fund programs positioned to make a measurable difference.
Connecting People to Help Through 211
One important resource highlighted during the conversation was 211, a free, confidential service that connects individuals and families with local assistance.
Available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 211 helps people find resources for housing, food, utilities, healthcare, and other essential needs.
Dr. Pauli also discussed how 211 played a valuable role following flooding in Janesville in April 2026, helping identify community needs and providing information that supported the city's federal funding application.
Whether someone is facing an unexpected financial hardship or simply doesn't know where to turn, help is just three digits away.
Need assistance? Dial 211 to connect with local resources.
Creating More Ways for Businesses to Give Back
United Way Blackhawk Region is expanding opportunities for businesses to participate in community giving throughout the year.
Traditional workplace giving campaigns remain an important part of the organization's fundraising efforts. Businesses can invite United Way representatives and nonprofit partners to share firsthand stories about how local contributions are making a difference.
New opportunities are also helping make community involvement more accessible and flexible.
Businesses can consider hosting a customer round-up campaign, allowing shoppers to round up their purchases to support United Way. Others may choose to dedicate a portion of one day's sales to local community impact.
During September's Day of Caring, participating Beloit businesses, including Culver's and The Rock, demonstrated how local businesses and their employees can come together to give back.
These partnerships show that making a difference doesn't have to be complicated. Whether through workplace giving, a special promotion, or a one-day fundraiser, every business has an opportunity to play a role in strengthening our region.
Small Gifts. Big Possibilities.
One of the most memorable moments of the interview came when Dr. Pauli illustrated the potential impact of small, consistent contributions.
He shared a simple example: If each of the approximately 151,000 people in the Blackhawk Region contributed just $1 per week, those combined gifts would generate approximately $7.85 million annually for local community needs.
It's a powerful reminder that meaningful change doesn't always require a large donation.
Every contribution matters.
Whether it's a recurring gift, a workplace payroll deduction, or a one-time donation, individuals can support programs that improve lives across our communities.
Donors also have the option to designate their contributions to specific nonprofit organizations or allow United Way to direct their gifts toward identified community priorities.
Opening Doors to a Stronger Blackhawk Region
Throughout the conversation, one message remained clear: Building a stronger community takes all of us.
United Way Blackhawk Region is committed to opening doors for nonprofit partnerships, engaging more local businesses, sharing the stories behind community impact, and helping individuals understand how their support changes lives.
By working together, we can connect more people with the resources they need and build a region where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
United Is the Way.
Listen to the Full WCLO Interview
Hear directly from Dr. Dennis Pauli as he discusses United Way Blackhawk Region's mission, community partnerships, giving opportunities, and vision for the future.
Listen to the October 28, 2026, WCLO Radio Interview
Ready to Make a Difference?
Whether you're an individual looking to give back, a business interested in launching a workplace giving campaign, or a nonprofit seeking partnership opportunities, United Way Blackhawk Region welcomes the opportunity to connect.
Email info@unitedway.br or call 608.757.3040 to learn how you can get involved.
Together, we're opening doors to opportunity and building a stronger Blackhawk Region.