INDIANAPOLIS — The United Way of Central Indiana received a $25 million donation from philanthropist MacKenzie Scott – the largest gift from a single donor in the organization’s 102-year history.
Scott, the ex-wife of Amazon founder and CEO Jeff Bezos, said in December that she would donate $4.1 billion to 384 organizations across the country.
United Way of Central Indiana is one of four in Indiana and two in Indianapolis to receive a donation from Scott. It’s not yet known which other organizations received donations.
“United Way of Central Indiana is truly honored to be among the 384 organizations chosen to receive a gift. With so many in our community reeling from the health and economic effects of the pandemic, recovery will not come overnight,” said Ann Murtlow, president and CEO, United Way of Central Indiana. “This gift is testament to the hard work of our people and partners, core strategy, demonstrated impact, and deep commitment to making Central Indiana a strong, healthy and equitable community for all.”
The United Way's mobilization with the Central Indiana COVID-19 Community Economic Relief Fund and the deployment of $24 million to help respond to the coronavirus pandemic helped Scott's advisor make the recommendation for the donation.
"Having the external validation of our strategy and the ability to execute as an organization is a wonderful feather in our cap and it goes to the hard work of our people over many years," Murtlow said.
United Way said it will work with its community partners to determine the best ways for the funds to support economic and social mobility. Murtlow said the money will not be spent all at once, but will be strategically deployed in the community, likely over a 3 to 5 year period.
Scott's donation is 20 times larger than Bezos' Day 1 Families Fund donation of $1.25 million to the Coalition for Homelessness Intervention & Prevention late last year.
