The United Way of Jefferson & North Walworth Counties is offering its 2024 Pillar Grant Program, inviting applications from organizations, local businesses, community clubs, or individuals. This program aligns with the United Way's overarching mission to improve the health, education, and financial stability of all individuals within their communities. Proposals submitted for these grants must serve a public purpose and directly support this mission, focusing on key areas that address significant community needs.
The Pillar Grant Program specifically targets communities within Jefferson County and the City of Whitewater, aiming to benefit residents by addressing critical social issues. The program seeks to make a strong, positive impact by funding creative and innovative projects that respond to identified community needs. While the grant details do not explicitly state a "theory of change," the program's structure implies that by investing in specific intervention areas, it will lead to improved community well-being and self-sufficiency.
The core priorities and focuses of the Pillar Grants are clearly defined, emphasizing four key areas: early intervention care, mental health and AODA (alcohol and other drug addiction) treatment, overcoming barriers to self-sufficiency, and promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion. Applicants must ensure their proposed projects and programs directly align with one or more of these strategic areas, as they represent the United Way's commitment to addressing the most pressing challenges faced by the communities it serves.
Expected outcomes include the accomplishment or initiation of projects within generally a one-year timeframe, leading to tangible improvements in the prioritized areas. While specific measurable results are not detailed in the program description, the emphasis on addressing community needs and providing a strong, positive impact suggests that successful proposals will demonstrate clear objectives and the potential for quantifiable improvements in early intervention, mental health, economic stability, and social equity within Jefferson County and Whitewater.
