AMPLIFY!

Connecting People, Knowledge, Resources, and Power for Change

AMPLIFY! is an initiative of United Way of Southwestern Indiana focused on promoting dignity, belonging, and opportunity through addressing systemic barriers and creating solutions to support diverse and thriving communities.

Connecting People, Knowledge, Resources, and Power for Change

AMPLIFY! is an initiative of United Way of Southwestern Indiana focused on promoting dignity, belonging, and opportunity through addressing systemic barriers and creating solutions to support diverse and thriving communities.

Why AMPLIFY!

Marginalized communities, especially communities of color, have historically been excluded from full participation in economic, political, and social life. These exclusions are embedded in policies, institutions, and cultural norms, creating intergenerational barriers to opportunity, mobility, and long-term prosperity.

Investing in historically marginalized communities doesn’t just benefit those communities; it often creates ripple effects that strengthen the broader economy, social stability, and overall quality of life for everyone.

When minority communities thrive:

  • Economic participation increases
  • Social costs decrease
  • Innovation and diversity improve outcomes

How AMPLIFY! Works

Step 1

Listen & Engage – We build trust through relationships, participation in community events, and deep listening.

Step 2

Identify & Understand – We surface barriers, challenges, and gaps that impact equity and upward mobility.

Step 3

Connect & Catalyze – We connect resources, build capacity, and support community-led solutions that drive change.

Our Impact So Far

Community Groups Engaged

Individuals & Organizations Mentored

$93k+

In Community Support Sponsorships Distributed

Organizations Supported

Every number represents relationships built, capacity strengthened, and community-led solutions supported.

Testimonials

“We are incredibly grateful for the United Way AMPLIFY! partnership. Your sponsorship of the HOLA Gala 2025 allowed us to provide 25 English Licenses for the community. This means that because of you, we were able to double our impact!”

— Adriana Soto, Executive Director, HOLA ( Hospitality and Outreach for Latin Americans)

“We received a sponsorship from the AMPLIFY!  program to take the EDUCA Summer Bilingual Literacy Program participants to the CMoe Children’s Museum of Evansville for the celebration of EDUCA summer program. This was just a great opportunity for our students to attend a STEM activity and a hands- on learning workshop “Water Water Everywhere: Exploring the Behavior of Water.” They had a lot of fun exploring various activities throughout the whole museum. This has contributed to increasing their knowledge of STEM and enjoying other activities they might not have the opportunity to experience.”

— Dr. Arcea Zapata De Aston, Founder, President, Executive Director, EDUCA (Educational and Cultural Advancement for Latinos)

“Through this sponsorship, Nerdz World worked with 7 startups and student-led businesses, all from right here in or around Evansville.”

— Delisa Payne, Founder and CEO Nerdz World

“Thanks to Nerdz World and AMPLIFY! I finally feel like I’m being taken seriously. Our website gave us the boost we needed to secure our first contract.”

— SBDL Transportation Founder

“As the Founder and CEO of an executive consulting firm headquartered in Evansville—with clients primarily on the east and west coasts—I work closely with executive leaders navigating real, operational, and financial challenges and meet other entrepreneurs during my networking sessions.

I will be transparent, my understanding of United Way’s work has always centered on providing essential resources—to families and children in financial need, food, shelter, and clothing. Engaging with AMPLIFY! introduced me to networking opportunities within the city that I had not previously considered, and that kind of proactive, generous thinking is rare. The impact of that conversation extended well beyond my own work.”

— Ronnetha Darrett, Founder and CEO, Cadence Advisory Consulting

“One of the most valuable lessons I have learned through my engagement with AMPLIFY! is the importance of building meaningful relationships and connecting people to resources.

Recently, I met with two cosmetology professionals who are pursuing their PhDs to discuss the future research component of Beyond the Chair. During our conversation, they commented on my ability to connect people with resources and described me as a strong networker. I immediately recognized that much of this skill has been developed through engaging with AMPLIFY! and its community-centered approach.

— Margaret Ferguson, Founder and Executive Director of Beyond the Chair

“I would like to express my sincere gratitude for your generous sponsorship. Your support means a great deal and has made a significant impact on King’s Lejmaanjuri Brunch.

Because of your kindness, I was able to host a brunch that would bring teen and mother together to understand each other. This opportunity is very important to me, and your contribution has truly made a difference.

Thank you once again for your generosity and trust. I deeply appreciate your support, and I will do my best to make the most of this opportunity.”

— Bina Anitok, King’s Marshallese Church

Be Part of the Change

Whether you’re a community member, organization, funder, or partner—AMPLIFY! is building pathways for you to engage, contribute, and help shape lasting change.