United Way Grant Program

The United Way Grant Program, spearheaded by the United Way of Lackawanna, Wayne & Pike Counties, aims to improve the quality of life for residents in Lackawanna, Wayne, and surrounding communities. The program is deeply aligned with the foundation's broader mission to serve as a catalyst for community problem-solving and to conduct efficient fundraising efforts to address compelling social problems. Specifically, it focuses on promoting quality education leading to graduation, stable employment, and sufficient income, while also advocating for good physical and mental health and a strong safety net during crises. The primary target beneficiaries of this grant program are non-profit, 501(c)(3) health and human service organizations that provide in-person, direct services within Wayne County. These organizations, in turn, serve the residents of Wayne and Pike Counties by supporting services specifically designed for them. The overarching impact goals are centered on achieving financial stability for families, ensuring access to quality education, fostering overall well-being, and building community resilience. The program's priorities and focus areas are broad, encompassing existing programs, new initiatives, program expansion, and even capital items, as long as they align with the United Way's mission. The emphasis is on addressing critical social challenges and improving outcomes in areas such as education, income stability, and health. The funds are a direct result of campaigns supported by individuals, businesses, and foundations dedicated to aiding Wayne and/or Pike County residents. Expected outcomes include an improvement in educational attainment, increased rates of stable employment and sufficient income for families, enhanced physical and mental health outcomes, and the establishment of robust safety nets for communities in times of crisis. While specific measurable results are not explicitly detailed beyond the general improvements in quality of life, the program's structure implies that the success will be evaluated through the direct services provided by the funded organizations and their impact on the target populations. The strategic priorities revolve around community problem-solving and effective resource allocation, operating under a theory of change that posits that by investing in key areas like education, health, and financial stability, the overall well-being and resilience of the community will be significantly improved. The grant sizes, ranging from $500 to $4,000 for individual grants to organizations, reflect a commitment to supporting a variety of initiatives that contribute to these comprehensive goals.