Why Give?

Charity Tracker

A family walked through the doors of
the Ministry Center in a moment of deep
need. With their young son battling for
his life in the ICU at Children’s Hospital,
the parents were forced to make a painful
choice: pay their utility bill or keep
their car filled with gas to make the
daily trip to be by his side. They turned to
the Ministry Center for help, and after a
careful assessment by a case manager,
a community alert was sent through
Charity Tracker — a tool designed to
connect people in crisis with a network of
organizations ready to help.

Before the day was over, something
remarkable happened. The utility bill was
paid in full, and several organizations
came forward to provide gas cards,
ensuring the family could stay close to
their son without worrying about financial
obstacles. Because of United Way’s
funding of Charity Tracker, the family can
now focus their energy on what matters
most — loving their son and cheering him
on in his fight. It’s a powerful reminder
that when a community comes together,
hope can conquer even the greatest
struggles.

Community Impact Grants

At Rise House, we know that healing from domestic
violence goes far beyond finding physical safety.
Survivors often carry invisible wounds like anxiety,
depression, PTSD, and deep emotional scars that
require compassionate, long-term care. That’s why,

in response to the overwhelming need for trauma-
informed counseling, we launched our mental health

program to provide free services to the individuals
and families we serve.
What started as a vision to offer holistic,
wraparound support quickly became a lifeline. Last
year alone, 83 clients received free, individualized
mental health care through our program. For many,
it was their first opportunity to talk to a licensed

therapist, process years of trauma, and begin the
long journey toward reclaiming their sense of self.
This critical program wouldn’t be possible without
the support of United Way of Central Arkansas.
Through the Health and Wellness grant, we’re

able to purchase vital therapy supplies, healing-
centered curriculum, and resources not just for

mental health counseling, but for the life skills and
support groups that surround it. From therapeutic
workbooks to calming tools for grounding exercises,
every item funded plays a role in our clients’
recovery. We believe healing should be accessible,
comprehensive, and rooted in dignity, and thanks to
United Way, we’re making that belief a reality.