United Way of Central Indiana, founded in 1918, serves seven counties around Indianapolis through 211, Indy Free Tax Prep, and grants to local programs. Here is what it does, how to get help, and how to give.
The affiliate raises money and directs it to programs and partners that sustain human services across central Indiana while working to reduce future need. It serves Boone, Hamilton, Hancock, Hendricks, Marion, Morgan, and Putnam counties.
President and CEO Fred Payne leads the organization. Its work spans basic needs, education, and family financial stability.
The fastest way to reach help is 211: dial the number or text your ZIP code to 898-211, and a community resource specialist can connect you to local services. The affiliate also backs Indy Free Tax Prep, a network of free tax sites.
| Program | What it does |
|---|---|
| 211 helpline | Free, confidential, 24/7 connection to local services; text your ZIP to 898-211. |
| Indy Free Tax Prep (VITA) | Free tax preparation for households with combined income of about $66,000 or less, by IRS-certified volunteers. |
| ALICE research | Data on working households that cannot afford the basics. |
| Community grants | Funding directed to local programs across seven counties. |
Free tax preparation can return credits like the Earned Income Tax Credit to working families without the cost of a paid preparer.
United Way uses the ALICE framework, Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed, to describe a growing number of families who cannot afford housing, childcare, food, transportation, healthcare, and technology even while working.
The data shapes where United Way of Central Indiana directs funding, toward programs that help families stay ahead of crisis.
You can donate directly, give through a workplace campaign, or designate a gift to a specific cause. Donations support the affiliate's grants and 211.
Volunteers help in many ways, including IRS-certified free tax preparation through Indy Free Tax Prep. United Way of Central Indiana holds a four-star rating from Charity Navigator with a 99 percent score, and its EIN for tax-deductible gifts is 35-1007590.
Free 24/7 connection to local services; text ZIP to 898-211.
Free tax filing for households earning about $66,000 or less.
Data on working households that cannot afford basics.
Funding directed to local programs in seven counties.
Support for students and families.
Payroll campaigns that fund the affiliate's work.
Sources: United Way of Central Indiana (uwci.org) 211, ALICE, and Indy Free Tax Prep pages; Charity Navigator and ProPublica (EIN 35-1007590). Retrieved June 2026. We are not affiliated with United Way of Central Indiana and receive no compensation for this listing. Spotted an error? [email protected]
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