Nancy Lohr Plake Retires after 35 years of service at United Way Johnson County
For 35 years, Nancy Lohr Plake has been a pillar of service and compassion in Johnson County, Indiana. As Executive Director of United Way Johnson County, Nancy has dedicated her life to uplifting the vulnerable, amplifying unheard voices, and mobilizing thousands in the pursuit of a stronger, more caring community.
Each year, more than 29,000 individuals are directly impacted by the 15 partner agencies and 7 direct programs under Nancy’s leadership. Her vision and tireless efforts have transformed the landscape of local service, creating programs that not only meet immediate needs but foster long-term stability and dignity.
Among her many achievements:
- Day of Caring: In 2025, this hallmark event celebrates its 29th year, engaging nearly 400 volunteers in 36 community work projects. Nancy grew this initiative from just 5 companies in 1996 to 40 today, exemplifying her ability to inspire collective action.
- No Place to Call Home: A program Nancy established to support families facing homelessness, offering critical resources to stabilize lives and restore hope.
- Operation Bundle Up: Created by Nancy, this program provides winter coats to over 1,000 individuals annually, ensuring warmth and comfort during Indiana’s harsh winters.
- Christmas Angels: Another of Nancy’s visionary programs, this initiative brings holiday joy to approximately 2,000 children each year, ensuring no child in Johnson County goes without a gift.
- Increased Revenue: Nancy has overseen the growth and financial development of the agency from an annual income of $346,000 in 1990 to $1.5 million dollars today. 87% of all funds raised goes back into the Johnson County community.
A retirement celebration will be held on Thursday, January 29 at Grace United Methodist Church located at 1300 E Adams Dr, Franklin, IN 46131 from 4:00-6:00 PM with brief remarks at 5:15. The public is welcome and may RSVP by calling Assistant Director, Tucker LaPrade, at 317-736-7840.
Nancy’s legacy is not just in numbers, but in the lives changed, the dignity restored, and the community strengthened. She has been a relentless advocate for those who are seldom asked and rarely heard, embodying the very spirit of Hoosier generosity and leadership. Nancy serves others without ever seeking the spotlight or personal recognition.
Her unwavering commitment to “organizing caring people to identify and meet human needs” has made her a beloved figure in Johnson County and a role model across the state.
United Way of Johnson County is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving lives and strengthening the community in Johnson County, Indiana. It focuses on mobilizing caring people and resources to meet critical human needs, such as education, financial stability, and health. Through programs like Fast Track, Operation Bundle Up, and housing initiatives, it partners with local agencies, businesses, and volunteers to create lasting impact. The organization serves as a connector and collaborator, addressing community challenges and promoting collective solutions.