2025 Hometown HEROES Magazine LINCOLN DAILY NEWS June/July 2025 Page 31 It also captures the needs of our community, so that we can go out to our community, our government, our agencies, and say, ‘Hey, our number one need according to 2-1-1 calls, is housing.’” Because of the impact that 2-1-1 has had on communities, the state of Illinois has assisted with the expansion of 2-1-1 across the state and is on track to have 100% coverage by the end of 2025. In the interview, Schonauer stated that partnerships with companies like Eaton Corporation make a big impact—employees can donate directly through payroll, with their company matching a portion of contributions. Schonauer explained that encouraging more workplace involvement across Logan County is a major goal for 2025, alongside exploring new fundraising efforts like a winter pickleball tournament. Despite their wide reach, United Way of Logan County stays rooted in local decision-making. A board of directors reviews applications from nonprofits each year and allocates funding based on need, community impact, and available resources. “It’s not just one person deciding,” Schonauer emphasized. “We have a diverse board that looks at what the impact is on the community.” [Sophia Larimore]
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