Investment Strategy

United Way of Cass-Clay has a unique perspective on our community’s issues. By using data and activating the right resources and partnerships, we make investments in programs and initiatives that will have the greatest, long-term impact on increasing access and reducing barriers for families experiencing poverty. We focus on our Bold Goals to create a better tomorrow for everyone.

Little boy and his mom living in the back of their vanKids in brightly colored shirts raising their hands in a classroomCertified Nursing Assistant smiling at older man who is in his hospital bed and his daughter at his bedside

 

Community Review Process

United Way utilizes a multi-tiered, volunteer-led process to make funding recommendations and decisions in alignment with our Bold Goals.

Eligible organizations must follow our application process and timeline to be considered for funding.

  • United Way will announce a Notice of Funding Availability.
  • Interested applicants identify their interest by either filling out an interest form or sending a letter of intent (every grant will require one or the other)
  • United Way will provide applicant a link to complete an online Proposal.
  • Applicant submits Proposal.
  • United Way’s volunteer-led Community Impact Committee reviews and score the Proposals based on eligibility criteria, alignment with United Way’s goals and strategies, and their demonstrated ability to measure performance indicators.
  • United Way informs applicants to either:
    1. invite them to submit an online Application.
    2. let them know they won’t move forward in the process and why.
  • Applicants submit Application.
  • United Way’s volunteer-led Community Impact Committee and Community Investment Review Panel groups reviews Applications and potentially conduct facility tours to gain further information.
  • Applicants are invited to present on their program to United Way and Committee volunteers.
  • United Way volunteers, using an evaluation rubric, will make funding recommendations.
  • United Way Board of Trustees review recommendations and finalize the funding decision.
  • United Way communicates final decisions to applicants.

 

Measuring Results

All Community Partners receiving a grant under one of our Bold Goals, Community Sponsorship, Emerging Initiatives, or other funding opportunity must submit reports to measure and describe the impact and activities. These reports include, but are not limited to, shared performance measures, client demographics, and impact stories.

Reporting schedules are unique to each investment type and will be outlined during the application and selection process.

Learn more about applying for a grant