The Community Chest was founded in Salina in 1936 as an efficient way to raise money for charity, broadening the base of giving and increasing fund stability. The five founding agencies are still partners.
The concept of a payroll deduction was introduced in the 60s, greatly increasing the rate of giving. The resulting workplace campaigns increased the visibility of the United Fund, and many people got in the habit of giving regularly.
From the beginning until the 1990s this system worked very well, providing a stamp of approval for the member organizations, proving their accountability for donor dollars.
Since the 1990s, the United Way has sought to respond to changing demographics and economic fluctuations by developing new approaches to helping people. Our four Priority Councils help us identify emerging needs and direct our funding accordingly.