United Way of Wayne County Announces Transition of United Church Ministries Assets to Support UCAN Program

United Way of Wayne County has announced the transition of assets from United Church Ministries (UCM) to support ongoing community crisis services through its United Community Assistance Network (UCAN) program. UCM, a faith-based nonprofit that served Wayne County for over four decades, officially closed its doors in December after years of dedicated service. The organization faced challenges, including a significant decline in donations and volunteer engagement during the COVID-19 pandemic, which made it difficult to recover to pre-pandemic levels. In 2025, UCM leadership began formal discussions to dissolve the nonprofit, with an official vote in October 2025 and a final resolution approved in January 2026.

“While this is certainly a bittersweet moment, it is also an opportunity,” said Lisa Lamm, Executive Director of United Church Ministries. “UCM was founded in 1983 by First Baptist Church and Dr. Leon Smith, and it has been sustained for decades by the unwavering commitment of our churches, volunteers, and leaders—especially longtime director Elaine Lamm. Knowing that our remaining assets will help strengthen United Way’s UCAN program allows us to honor that legacy by continuing to support individuals and families in crisis. The mission that began more than 40 years ago will live on through this connection.”

United Way of Wayne County will accept any remaining assets from UCM and assign them to its UCAN program. UCAN provides direct assistance to individuals and families experiencing personal crises, ensuring that the spirit and purpose of UCM’s work will continue through meaningful, local support. The program has long been a vital resource for those in need, offering practical help during times of hardship.

In addition, the United Way of Wayne County Board of Directors has expressed a strong interest in maintaining an arm or connection to UCM’s mission by strengthening collaboration with churches and faith-based partners throughout the county. This effort reflects a shared commitment to honoring UCM’s history while adapting to current community needs through collective impact.

“We see this as both a responsibility and an opportunity,” said Sherry Archibald, Executive Director of United Way of Wayne County. “By working alongside our faith partners, we hope to continue the heart of UCM’s work—meeting people where they are, during some of the most vulnerable times in their lives.”

The transition underscores the importance of partnerships in addressing community needs. As the Bible reminds us in Galatians 6:10, “So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you.” This principle aligns with the collaborative spirit that has defined UCM’s legacy and continues to guide United Way’s efforts. Through this transition, the community’s commitment to mercy and service remains steadfast, reflecting the enduring call to love our neighbors as ourselves.

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