Old National Bank Foundation 20 for 20 Grantee Profiles: United Way of Southwestern Indiana Addressing Evansville-area’s Most Challenging Issues
As part of its 20th anniversary celebration, and two decades of helping build stronger, more vibrant and prosperous communities, the Old National Bank Foundation in 2026 is donating a total of $20,000 to 20 nonprofit organizations throughout its nine-state footprint, including United Way of Southwestern Indiana in Evansville, Ind.
United Way of Southwestern Indiana brings people, resources and organizations together to address some of the region’s most pressing challenges. Through strategic investments, programs and volunteer engagement, the organization works to create pathways for individuals and families to achieve stability and thrive.
Building a holistic system to overcome barriers
United Way of Southwestern Indiana traces its roots to 1922, when it was founded as the region’s “Community Chest” to harness the power of collective giving and civic responsibility. More than a century later, its mission remains focused on improving lives by addressing the complex and often interconnected challenges associated with poverty.
“Throughout our history, we’ve seen community challenges evolve, but the need for a holistic system that helps people overcome barriers and achieve stability has remained constant,” says Amy Mangold, President and CEO of United Way of Southwestern Indiana. “The impact our donors and partners have made is truly immeasurable. Together, we’ve invested in better mental and physical health, support for abuse survivors, workforce development, early childhood education and programs that help young people succeed both in school and throughout their lives.”
A success story: Jenna
One story that illustrates that impact is Jenna’s. After significant behavioral challenges led her foster mother to request her removal from the home, Jenna was referred to a United Way Mental Health Pathway partner. Through intensive therapy, consistent support and encouragement, she began to make remarkable progress. As her stability improved, she enrolled in a self-paced alternative education program for at-risk youth, ultimately earning her High School Equivalency credential.
She also participated in family therapy that helped rebuild trust with her foster family, leading to her return home. Today, Jenna is employed and building greater independence, transforming a difficult chapter in her life into one filled with hope and opportunity.
“Stories like Jenna’s show what can happen when people receive the support they need at the right time,” Mangold says. “Whether it’s mental health services, education, childcare or social capital support, our goal is to help individuals and families move from crisis toward stability and long-term success.”
More than financial support
Beyond financial support, Old National and its team members have partnered with United Way through workplace campaigns, volunteerism, board service and community leadership initiatives that have helped strengthen the organization’s impact across Southwestern Indiana.
“Old National’s impact on our mission is impossible to quantify,” Mangold says. “From leading annual campaigns and raising millions of dollars to volunteering, serving on boards and committees, and investing in our work through grants and sponsorships, Old National and its associates consistently demonstrate what community leadership looks like. They are an invaluable partner in improving the lives of our neighbors, and we are proud to work alongside them.”
The partnership between the Old National Bank Foundation and United Way of Southwestern Indiana reflects a shared commitment to building stronger communities and expanding opportunities for individuals and families. Together, they are helping ensure that critical resources, support systems and pathways to success remain available for those who need them most.
“Our ‘20 for 20’ campaign recognizes 20 organizations that have helped strengthen communities and expand opportunity through their partnership with the Old National Bank Foundation,” said Old National Bank Foundation President Joe Kiser. “Their leadership, innovation, and commitment to serving others reflect the very best of what can happen when communities come together around a shared purpose. As we celebrate the Foundation’s 20th anniversary, these organizations represent the many communities, causes, and partnerships that have shaped the Foundation’s work over the past two decades.”
To learn more about United Way of Southwestern Indiana, visit https://unitedwayswi.org.
Each year, the Old National Bank Foundation endeavors to fund as many initiatives that meet our funding priorities as possible across our footprint. For more information on grants or the Old National Bank Foundation, click here.
