A local bank’s foundation is helping United Way of Bartholomew meet its goal of lifting families out of poverty.
First Financial Foundation has awarded United Way of Bartholomew County a $100,000 grant to be paid over three years for the Avenues to Opportunity program.
Avenues to Opportunity is a United Way program that holistically lifts people to their full potential by addressing their individual barriers by providing basic needs, offering job and budget coaching, and giving individuals the tools they need to rise 200% above the Federal Poverty Line. This program is a main part of United Way’s strategy to lift 1,000 families out of poverty in 2,000 days.
“First Financial’s mission is to be a positive influence to help our clients and communities thrive,” said Archie Brown, president, and chief executive officer of First Financial Bank. “Our support of UWBC ensures that children, families and adults in Bartholomew County will have access to the tools and resources needed to help them overcome economic, social and emotional challenges.”
Last year, 263 families participated in Avenues to Opportunity, with all of them gaining job skills and receiving financial coaching. Families who are enrolled in Avenues typically receive about 120 hours of personalized coaching that help them overcome their individual barriers.
The foundation’s grant will help ensure families have what they need to succeed.
“We pride ourselves, as does the United Way of Bartholomew County, in developing lasting solutions to our community’s most important issues. We’re thrilled to help provide the children and families the tools they need to thrive and succeed,” said Tony Gambaiani, commercial regional market president at First Financial.
“United Way’s goal is to lift 1,000 families out of poverty in 2,000 days and our Avenues to Opportunity program offers a holistic solution that gives individuals the skills they need to reach their full potential,” said Mark Stewart, president of United Way of Bartholomew County. “We are grateful for the critical support of all our corporate partners like First Financial Bank who help make this program available to Bartholomew County. Their commitment to Avenues to Opportunity will truly have a positive impact in our community.”
