Newsroom

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]

211 Kansas Celebrates 20 Years of Connecting Residents to Essential Community Resources in Time of Need

WICHITA, Kan., June 16, 2026 — For 20 years, 211 Information and Referral Service has helped Kansans find the local support they need to navigate life’s challenges. During that time, the service has connected residents to community resources more than 1.75 million times, helping individuals and families build stability and . . . [Read More]

Second Light to Announce United Way of the Plains Challenge Grant

WICHITA, Kan., June 11, 2026 – On Thursday morning, Second Light announced a $1 million transformative investment from United Way of the Plains, given over three years, to support the future of . . . [Read More]