First Pitch with Candace McGraw & The Cincinnati Reds
A Night to Celebrate Leadership, Generosity and Community
July 28
A recent Reds vs. Dodgers game offered more than just a great night at the ballpark — it was an opportunity to celebrate the people and partnerships that help make Greater Cincinnati stronger every day.
We were proud to cheer on Candace McGraw, our 2025 United Way Campaign Chair, as she took the field as the game’s honorary captain. Her leadership, both in the community and through this campaign, continues to inspire and energize our work.
In the Executive Super Suite at Great American Ball Park, we gathered with members of our Centennial Society — some of our most generous supporters. Their dedication fuels United Way programs that strengthen families, uplift neighborhoods and build long-term stability throughout the region.
The night also included a special recognition of our United Way 211 team. These frontline professionals helped 211 LA answer thousands of requests for assistance during the California wildfires earlier this year. Here in Greater Cincinnati, they continue to provide essential support every day, connecting local individuals and families to vital services and a path forward.
A big thank-you to the Cincinnati Reds for honoring community leadership and spotlighting the impact of everyday heroes.
Tocqueville Tuesday: Connecting Communities to Critical Resources
April 8
At a recent Tocqueville Society gathering, United Way of Greater Cincinnati brought together some of its most dedicated supporters to spotlight a service that quietly transforms thousands of lives each year: United Way 211. The conversation centered on how this long-standing helpline — available 24/7 — is often the first step toward stability for individuals and families facing crisis.
For nearly 50 years, our helpline has been a lifeline in our region. Much like 911 is for emergencies and 988 is for mental health crises, 211 is the number to call for everything else — housing assistance, food, transportation, health care, utility support and more. It’s free, confidential, and available to anyone in need.
At the event, donors heard directly from the people behind the scenes — those who power this essential service every day. They shared stories of real families, real needs, and the very real difference 211 makes.
Annual Tocqueville Celebration
May 29
We gathered for an evening of gratitude, inspiration and celebration at the 2025 Annual Tocqueville Celebration — and what a night it was! Whether you joined us in person or supported from afar, you were at the heart of it all.
We were proud to honor the outstanding leadership and generosity of Archie and Sharen Brown, George and Kim Vincent, and Jim and Alison Zimmerman. Their impact is a powerful testament to what’s possible when community comes first.
We were also pleased to welcome back 2024 Tocqueville honorees, Joel Stone and Michael Fisher, who personally recognized this year’s honorees alongside our 2024 campaign chair, Debbie Hayes, President and CEO of The Christ Hospital Health Network, a presenting sponsor.
A special moment of the evening was a heartfelt tribute to Francie G. Pepper, delivered by David Taylor and accepted by her husband, John Pepper. It reminded us all of the deep and lasting impact one leader can make.
Thank you for being part of this incredible community. Your commitment is what makes celebrations like this — and the change we create together — possible.
