What needs or causes are supported by United Way and how is that determined?
United Way supports those human service needs and issues, which are identified as being important by the public. Every five years, in an extensive county wide assessment, United Way asks citizens in the county to identify these needs in detail. This input process is thorough and open so as to assure that raised funds are going to subjects which are meaningful and positively impact the community. The results of the most recent 2005 assessment and the needs which were identified can be found on United Ways website in the section titled 2005 Impact Report. The needs identified in that Report are those to which United Way directs its funding and are the ones for which agencies request funding in written proposals. Fund distribution volunteers thoroughly review these requests for funds, visit programs in operation, speak with program staff and their board members, and make funding recommendations to the United Way Board on what programs can best address those issues.
