{"id":15039,"date":"2025-01-23T15:56:00","date_gmt":"2025-01-23T15:56:00","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/wordpress.thetruthtoledo.com\/?p=15039"},"modified":"2025-01-23T15:56:00","modified_gmt":"2025-01-23T15:56:00","slug":"jonathan-dorcely-and-united-way-of-greater-toledo-connecting-hearts-minds-and-resources-for-a-better-tomorrow","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/wordpress.thetruthtoledo.com\/index.php\/2025\/01\/23\/jonathan-dorcely-and-united-way-of-greater-toledo-connecting-hearts-minds-and-resources-for-a-better-tomorrow\/","title":{"rendered":"Jonathan Dorcely and United Way of Greater Toledo: Connecting Hearts, Minds and Resources for a Better Tomorrow"},"content":{"rendered":"

By Asia Nail
\n<\/strong>The Truth Reporter<\/strong><\/p>\n

Imagine standing at a crossroads in life, unsure of which path to take. For Jonathan Dorcely<\/strong>, that moment came during the tumultuous days of the COVID-19 pandemic. Laid off like many others in 2020, he was searching for his next step when a door opened: United Way of Greater Toledo<\/strong>. “I\u2019ve always had the desire to be involved with my community and help others, but I wasn\u2019t sure how to do that. United Way came to me at the perfect time in my life,” Dorcely shares.<\/p>\n

Today, Dorcely serves as the director of Marketing & Engagement at United Way of Greater Toledo, where his passion for connection and community-building shines. But what does United Way actually do? And why should it matter to you? Let\u2019s explore the story of Mr. Dorcely and this transformative organization that\u2019s been at the heart of our community for over a century.<\/p>\n

The Heart of United Way: Building Bridges<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Did you know that United Way started in 1918 as the Community Chest<\/em><\/strong>, a fundraiser to support social service agencies during World War I? Back then, people needed help but didn\u2019t know where to turn. United Way answered that call, connecting donors, volunteers and organizations to tackle pressing social issues. Over 100 years later, the mission remains the same: to unite the power of community to improve lives.<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019re connectors at heart,\u201d Dorcely explains. \u201cUnited Way doesn\u2019t provide direct services like some nonprofits (outside of 211), but we uplift our partners, shine a light on important issues and connect the dots for the community.\u201d Think of United Way as the glue holding together the fabric of support in our region.<\/p>\n

United Way\u2019s approach is more than just funding\u2014it\u2019s about empowering smaller organizations to thrive and collaborate for a greater impact. By stepping in as a bridge builder, they ensure even the smallest voices in the nonprofit sector are heard and supported.<\/p>\n

Dorcely explains, \u201cUnder our United Way model, we take the organizations we work with and suggest the strongest metrics to see if what they\u2019re doing is truly leading to positive change. Our money goes further because we\u2019re able to help our partners align their efforts.\u201d<\/p>\n

This alignment not only amplifies the effectiveness of individual programs but creates a ripple effect, driving measurable, community-wide progress that\u2019s greater than the sum of its parts.<\/p>\n

A Lifeline Through 211<\/strong><\/h3>\n

One of United Way\u2019s standout programs is 211<\/strong>, a free 24\/7 helpline connecting individuals to resources like food, housing, healthcare and more. Whether you\u2019re a single mom struggling to make ends meet, a senior in need of transportation or anyone facing unexpected challenges, 211 is a lifeline.<\/p>\n

\u201cDuring the pandemic, we mobilized 211 to help register students for meal distributions, connect seniors to vaccination efforts, and ensure no child went hungry when schools closed,\u201d Dorcely recalls. \u201cThis is the value we bring\u2014connecting the pieces so no one is left behind.\u201d<\/p>\n

DEI: A Non-Negotiable Commitment<\/strong><\/h3>\n

United Way\u2019s commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) runs deep. Under the visionary leadership of CEO Wendy Pestrue, J.D., and the dedicated efforts of the Community Impact Team, United Way ensures complete transparency in how decisions about community investments are made.<\/p>\n

Dorcely and his team also ensure that their marketing strategies reflect the rich diversity of our community. \u201cWe\u2019re very intentional about our imagery and language. Everyone should feel seen and valued,\u201d he emphasizes.<\/p>\n

This inclusivity extends to their decision-making process. United Way is reflective of the communities they serve and ensuring they involve people with lived experiences in shaping community funding. For example, if a housing program is being evaluated, someone with firsthand knowledge of housing challenges is at the table. \u201cWe believe in making intentional investments that truly align with the needs of our community,\u201d Dorcely says.<\/p>\n

Guiding the Next Generation<\/strong><\/h3>\n

For young professionals considering a career in marketing, nonprofits, or community engagement, Dorcely offers heartfelt advice: \u201cFind a cause that resonates with you. Volunteer, attend events, and talk to people. Developing your leadership skills will lead you to your perfect destination.\u201d<\/p>\n

He encourages aspiring leaders to embrace their journey, even if it feels uncertain at times. \u201cIt may take time to discover what truly drives you, but once you do, the impact you can make is limitless.\u201d<\/p>\n

Responding in Times of Crisis<\/strong><\/h3>\n

United Way\u2019s ability to adapt during crises sets it apart. From the pandemic to natural disasters like hurricanes and wildfires, the organization steps up when the community needs it most. \u201cThere\u2019s a level of comfort knowing United Way is here to respond and show up in whatever way the community needs us to,\u201d Dorcely shares.<\/p>\n

During the early days of COVID-19, United Way raised emergency response funds to support organizations struggling to meet increased demand. They provided resources, equipment, and volunteers to ensure vital services continued uninterrupted.<\/p>\n

A Celebration of Service: 211 Week<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Mark your calendars for February 11, when United Way celebrates 211 Day nationwide. Locally, the festivities include a week of programming, a breakfast event, and even a scavenger hunt to help people learn how to navigate the 211 database. It\u2019s a fun and engaging way to spotlight the incredible work being done in our community.<\/p>\n

A Call to Action: What Can You Do?<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Jonathan Dorcely\u2019s story and United Way\u2019s mission inspire a simple yet powerful question: What do you want to see change in our community? Perhaps you\u2019ve felt the tug to make a difference but aren\u2019t sure where to start. United Way offers countless opportunities to get involved, from volunteering to donating or simply spreading the word.<\/p>\n

As Dorcely puts it, \u201cFind what resonates with you most. It will be your guiding light.\u201d<\/p>\n

Building a Brighter Tomorrow<\/strong><\/h3>\n

At its core, United Way of Greater Toledo is about hope\u2014hope for stronger families, healthier communities, and brighter futures. With leaders like Dorcely at the helm, this organization is not just solving problems; it\u2019s creating possibilities.<\/p>\n

The question is, are you ready to join the journey? Together, we can build a world where everyone has the chance to thrive. It starts with one connection, one act of kindness, and one shared vision: to Live United.<\/p>\n

For more information about United Way of Greater Toledo and how you can get involved, visit their <\/em>website<\/em><\/a> or dial 211 to access resources. <\/em><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

By Asia Nail The Truth Reporter Imagine standing at a crossroads in life, unsure of which path to take. For Jonathan Dorcely, that moment came during the tumultuous days of the COVID-19 pandemic. Laid off like many others in 2020, he was searching for his next step when a door opened: United Way of Greater […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":15040,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[6,21,17],"tags":[],"wf_post_folders":[277,23],"class_list":["post-15039","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-economy","category-cover_story","category-local"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/wordpress.thetruthtoledo.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/15039","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/wordpress.thetruthtoledo.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/wordpress.thetruthtoledo.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/wordpress.thetruthtoledo.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/wordpress.thetruthtoledo.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=15039"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/wordpress.thetruthtoledo.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/15039\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":15041,"href":"https:\/\/wordpress.thetruthtoledo.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/15039\/revisions\/15041"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/wordpress.thetruthtoledo.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/15040"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/wordpress.thetruthtoledo.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=15039"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/wordpress.thetruthtoledo.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=15039"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/wordpress.thetruthtoledo.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=15039"},{"taxonomy":"wf_post_folders","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/wordpress.thetruthtoledo.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/wf_post_folders?post=15039"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}