Montgomery County United Way: Strengthening the First Door Program
Partner
Who is our collaborator?
The Montgomery County United Way is a non-profit organization that supports the Montgomery County community in health, youth opportunity, financial security, and more. They partner with local nonprofits, businesses, community leaders, donors, and volunteers to create solutions that address the most complex challenges that no single person or organization can solve alone. Whenever there is a need in the community, United Way is there.
Opportunity
What needs to be addressed?
One way Montgomery County United Way helps support community needs is through the First Door program. Finding help can feel overwhelming, especially during a crisis. First Door makes it easier for individuals and families in Montgomery County to get connected to the resources they need most. By serving as a central access point, First Door helps people navigate available support and take the next step forward. Whether someone is facing an immediate challenge or needs ongoing assistance, First Door connects them to local resources in one place, without having to navigate multiple systems on their own.
Connection
How did Purdue get involved?
To help strengthen First Door’s ability to connect community members with resources, Purdue students worked with United Way to improve access to local housing information. Purdue’s Doctoral and undergraduate students developed a project plan, researched local housing options, and created an outreach script before reaching out to local landlords for rental information. The resulting spreadsheet—filled with vital, up-to-date rental details—has informed the organization’s First Door Program, which helps individuals and families get connected to essential resources, such as housing assistance.
Want to engage with Purdue’s resources?