Purdue United Way launches 2025 campaign

The 2025 Purdue United Way campaign is now officially underway, with the goal of raising $700,000 through Nov. 5 in support of local partner agencies that strengthen Greater Lafayette.

Jim Bullard, the Dr. Samuel R. Allen Dean of the Mitch Daniels School of Business, will lead the university’s fundraising effort as the 2025 Purdue United Way campaign champion. As a former United Way U.S.A. board chair, Bullard brings both national experience and commitment to Purdue’s long-standing partnership with United Way of Greater Lafayette.

That partnership dates back to the early 1980s, when Purdue President Steven Beering and Charles Wise, vice president of development, helped launch the university’s involvement. Since then, faculty, staff and friends have built one of the largest campus-based United Way campaigns, directly supporting agencies that serve the Greater Lafayette community. Thanks to their generosity, the 2024 campaign surpassed its goal, raising $731,000 for local families.

This year’s theme, “Local Giving. Lasting Impact,” highlights a key distinction of the campaign: Every dollar raised through Purdue’s United Way effort stays in Greater Lafayette. The funds support a network of 24 local human service agencies that provide resources like food and housing for families in crisis, mental health support, adult literacy programs, and services for seniors and people with disabilities. These programs go beyond immediate relief, helping individuals and families achieve long-term stability and self-sufficiency.

The campaign incentive drawing returns this year, offering faculty and staff the chance to be entered into drawings for a variety of gift cards and a round of golf at the Birck Boilermaker Golf Complex. Those who respond through the donation website by clicking either the “Give Now” or “I Don’t Wish To Give” buttons will be automatically entered into the drawing pool.

Faculty and staff can contribute through the ePledge system by making either an unrestricted gift to United Way of Greater Lafayette or donating to a specific partner agency. Gifts can be made through payroll deduction or as a one-time donation.

With the expansion of Purdue University in Indianapolis, the Purdue United Way partnership continues to grow. No matter where you live, your Purdue United Way contribution strengthens your own community. See the impact in a new video featuring reflections from Purdue football players.

To donate or learn more about the campaign, visit the Purdue United Way website. Questions can be directed to Lisa Duncan at llduncan@purdue.edu.