The 309 Small Business Initiative is a way for smaller local businesses to contribute to the United Way of Pekin without the larger, more formal campaign. We understand the challenges of running a smaller operation and how a traditional campaign could be a bit too much on your plate. This is a way to support our mission, your community and help those in need with a hand up.

Your membership supports both our H.A.N.D. Project which is our first internal initiative designed to connect with area youth to provide various life skills training and small business initiatives. the H.A.N.D. Project focuses on providing financial literacy, career resources, resumes, whole health, time management, emotional intelligence, making major life decisions, parenting skills, and how to avoid scams as young adults. This program will be designed and taught in collaboration with members of the Initiative as a way to give back and uplift those at-risk youth and provide a beacon of hope. Small business initiatives include networking events, educational/training sessions to support small businesses.

To learn more about the Initiative and membership benefits visit: https://www.unitedwayofpekin.org/309sbi