United Way, Day 9: Darius and Ben’s story

To learn more about Darius and Ben’s story, watch the video.

United Way of the Midlands proudly funds health and human service programs that help those in need across Douglas, Sarpy and Pottawattamie counties.

The services provided by United Way of the Midlands partner agencies include: basic needs, employment, housing and income, health, mental health, safety, volunteers and disaster, senior recreation, sexual assault and domestic violence, youth mentoring and parent education, youth recreation, and youth resources.

The running total

As of 3 p.m. Monday, UNMC achieved:

  • Donations of $123,960, nearly 80 percent of the campaign goal of $155,000.
  • Employee participation of 35 percent. This year’s employee participation goal is 50 percent. Remember, using the UNMC eServ website to choose not to donate counts as participation.

Today, we meet Darius, a young participant in the United Way-supported Kids Can Community Center and Ben, his mentor.

As a local college student, Ben was searching for a way to volunteer in the community. He found mentoring, and was inspired to join the program at Kids Can Community Center, supported by United Way of the Midlands, with the hopes of being a positive influence in the life of a young person.

Ben was paired with Darius. Whether it’s baking, football, or homework, Ben and Darius enjoy their time together. Ben encourages Darius to grow and work well with others and Darius, in turn, has helped Ben improve his leadership skills and become more open-minded. The pairing has helped both of them grow immensely — progress that will continue to impact their lives well into the future.

To join in supporting the United Way:

  • Click on this link. (The link will take you to UNMC eServ page.)
  • Enter your UNMC username and password.
  • Click on the United Way link and participate today!
  • New this year: Credit card donations are accepted!