United Way measures success in how lives are changed, and they do not do this work alone. In addition to working with local corporations, businesses, nonprofits, foundations and individuals, they partner with 27 dedicated nonprofits and invest in quality programs that show measurable outcomes every year. Together, they create new solutions to pressing problems and join with people from all walks of life to put those solutions into action.

“Our partner agencies continue to inspire us through the incredible work they do to support our neighbors in need of help,” shared Nancy Money, United Way’s Director of Community Impact. “They are the champions of care in our community, and have the most generous hearts. We are so grateful for them being a network of support for our community, families, friends and neighbors.”

United Way listens, asks questions and analyzes data to ensure that their issue areas are aligned with the most pressing needs. Dollars are invested in programs in the areas of Youth Success, Health and Household Stability because change is bigger than a single organization or program.

“You may not realize that volunteers determine how the community’s investment will be allocated,” shared Kim Stuhler, Senior Investment Manager. “Each year our volunteer panels devote over 20 hours to reviewing applications, assessing outcomes, posing questions and hearing from our partners. Based on what they learn, they make funding recommendations to the United Way board.”

The allocation process is best-in-class and digs deep into the funded programs to ensure that there is a high level of accountability and that all investments demonstrate measurable impact in the community. United Way’s Community Impact Strategy Team also explores gaps in health and human service needs and recommended that United Way open the allocation process up this year to help meet those gaps.

United Way is excited to announce their new partnership with Midland County Habitat for Humanity and the Midland County Emergency Food Pantry Network.

“Both of our new partners join an impactful team of nonprofits doing amazing work in our community that align with our three pillars,” shared Holly Miller, President & CEO of United Way of Midland County. “Throughout the last year and a half, we have worked very closely with both organizations through flood recovery and the global pandemic. These partnerships allow us to have a greater reach, ensuring that our neighbors have basic needs like access to healthy food along with affordable home ownership.”

Funding will support Habitat for Humanity’s Homeownership & Construction program and Emergency Food Pantry Network’s Backpack Buddies program. In addition, funding was approved for three new programs provided through current nonprofit partners. This includes: 3 & 4’s Preschool and Infant/Toddler childcare as Midland County ESA along with Adult Basic Education through the Legacy Center for Community Success.

Click here to see the entire list of partner agencies and programs United Way supports.