Newsroom

United Way Announces Marty Baumbach as Vice President of Community Impact

WICHITA, Kan., Monday, Aug. 17, 2026 — United Way of the Plains is pleased to announce it has named Marty Baumbach as its new Vice President of Community Impact.

In this role, Baumbach will lead efforts to strengthen United Way’s impact across south-central Kansas through strategic initiatives, community investments, and nonprofit . . . [Read More]

Credit Union of America Donates $50,000 to Second Light Through United Way Challenge Grant

Gift will be matched dollar-for-dollar, doubling its impact to help address homelessness in Wichita

WICHITA, Kan., July 17, 2026 — Credit Union of America (CUA) announced a $50,000 donation to Second Light, a shelter and resource hub for Wichita’s unhoused community. In partnership with the United Way of the . . . [Read More]

United Way of the Plains Announces Retirement of President and CEO Pete Nájera

WICHITA, Kan., June 24, 2026 – The Board of Directors of United Way of the Plains today announced that President and Chief Executive Officer Pete Nájera will retire effective March 31, 2027, following a distinguished career in military, business and nonprofit leadership.

“Leading United Way of the Plains has been one . . . [Read More]

United Way of the Plains Hosts Third Annual Day of Action, Inspiring Community-Wide Volunteerism

WICHITA, Kan., June 18, 2026 – Nearly 200 community volunteers came together today for United Way of the Plains’ third annual Day of Action, a community-wide day of service dedicated to creating meaningful impact for local nonprofits. Volunteers completed projects for 12 local charitable organizations, providing hands-on support to help . . . [Read More]

Growing Affordability Crisis Linked to Rise in Local Homelessness in New Wichita/Sedgwick County Report

WICHITA, Kan., June 17, 2026 — The new “2026 State of Homelessness in Wichita/Sedgwick County Report” from the Coalition to End Homelessness in Wichita/Sedgwick County reveals that the growing affordability crisis for local households is contributing to an increase in homelessness.

More than one in three households (38%) in Sedgwick County . . . [Read More]