In a bit of a ‘perfect storm’ scenario, United Way of Southwest Michigan President & CEO Anna Murphy said changes in the economy & workforce locally coinciding with the changes to federal, and eventually, state budgets, are making things exceptionally challenging. “Everything around us is quickly adapting and changing, so our organization’s sustainability mission for the future is to be agile and nimble with our processes. Whether that’s raising funds or making funding decisions, it’s all about closely following the need where it exists. As these potential changes become reality, we reassessed how we could best invest what funding we still have available to make the most impact in our communities.

United Way of Southwest Michigan’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program, commonly known as VITA (pronounced VYE-tuh), is excited to announce the program’s volunteers assisted over 1,100 clients across Berrien, Cass, and Van Buren counties with tax preparation & filing. The result is over $1.3 Million in tax refunds returned to Southwest Michigan residents through this vital program.

Nearly 300 donors, volunteers, and community partners filled Lake Michigan College’s Mendel Center Grand Upton Hall on Thursday, April 24, for United Way of Southwest Michigan’s Annual Celebration, an evening that looked back on 2024 and honored the people who made  last year’s impact possible. President & CEO Anna Murphy opened the program by reminding guests that the night was really about them and their willingness to “live united” for neighbors across Berrien, Cass, and Van Buren counties. ​